I’ve learned so much this summer while taking this course. Through lecture materials, readings, and videos, I’ve gained an understanding of the hyperlinked library model and expanded my viewpoints on the library field. But there is infinite learning to be done as a library professional. For this reflection blog post I wanted to explore personal learning experiences for library professionals and look to the future of how I can continue to learn throughout my career.
Some questions for consideration:
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- What are my motivations for learning?
- What is my learning style?
- What is the formula for success?
Learning Motivations
I believe motivation is a vital component to learning and developing professional growth. Without it, learning can be a struggle and may lead to letting go of learning opportunities because of a lack of interest. Whether the motivation is external such as to obtain a promotion, internal such as personal interest and curiosity, or a combination of factors, motivation gives a learner the strength to push past when the confusing or challenging aspect of learning arises. It helps a learner to continue to contemplate, process, and digest new information and knowledge.
Learning Styles
“Learning to Learn” in The Heart of Librarianship reminded me that learning is a skill on its own that is especially crucial in the ever evolving library field (Stephens, 2016, p. 140). This brought to mind learning styles, something I was taught in previous schooling. Everyone has their own learning style and understanding this can help someone optimize the learning process. Learning styles include the following: visual, read/write, auditory, and kinesthetic. I have discovered that I personally learn best by reading and writing and struggle most with auditory learning. To accommodate my learning preferences, I will often turn on captions of lecture videos and find I better absorb the information by reading the captions along with watching the video.
Formula for Success
In Wholehearted Librarianship, Stephens provides a formula for success to build a librarian (Stephens, 2019, pp. 30-31):
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- Essential Skills + Mindset2 x Support = Success
The part of this equation I want to focus on is support. Who can I turn to during the learning process to support my professional growth? I think peers and mentors in the library and information science field are essential to this variable. Already in my MLIS journey I have gained invaluable learning experiences by conversing with peers, professors, and other library professionals be it online or in face-to-face conversations. Conferences are extremely meaningful, not just for the information presented at them, but for opportunities to connect and engage with others in the field.
Between motivation, learning style, and support, I’m starting to see what sustains lifelong learning for me. Recognizing what my learning incentives are, playing to my strengths, and adjusting when learning conditions aren’t ideal are all important pieces to keep in mind to sustain momentum for learning over the course of my career.
References
Stephens, M. (2016). The heart of librarianship: Attentive, positive, and purposeful change. ALA Editions.
Stephens, M. (2019). Wholehearted librarianship: Finding hope, inspiration, and balance. ALA Editions.