What makes a successful learner? For a long time, research has tried to answer this question. So why is it that sometimes we learn well, while at other times we fail badly?

There are several answers to this question, but all have one element in common: motivation.

Motivation - the enthusiasm or drive to achieve - is the essential ingredient for effective learning. It's simple: if you're going to learn well, you've got to have a good reason for doing it. Wanting to achieve something is far more important than being 'clever' or having a high IQ.

If we don't take charge of our own development, no one else will. So if we're to succeed, it's vital that we're motivated and willing to learn.

What's your reason?
Motivation comes when we are committed to doing something; when we can see it makes sense; when we can see a return for our efforts; when we want it badly. When we 'own' our own development, take responsibility for achieving things and are hungry for the benefits our development can bring, we are very likely to succeed. Those benefits are not necessarily material gains - they could be greater self-confidence, a sense of achievement or new status.

How to be a motivated learner
Research has shown that there are several 'motivation keys' that help unlock better, more effective learning. The more keys you have, the stronger your motivation to learn. Do you have all the keys? Decide whether you're ready by asking yourself the following questions - and be sure to answer honestly!

What resources do I need?
What will you need to help you learn? You might need a home computer and internet access. Or simply a few words of friendly encouragement from a partner or friend.

Who will guide me?
Would you prefer a tutor by your side? Or maybe you'll work online whenever you can fit it in? Perhaps occasional meetings with your tutor or other learners will suit you best? Or you might prefer the support of a fully trained learndirect careers adviser, who you can speak to whenever you like by phoning 0800 100 900.

What's my goal?
Decide exactly what you want to achieve - and write it down. That way, you'll know when you've reached your goal.

What's the point?
Be clear about why the learning is important to you. For example, will it help you organise your life? Fulfil an ambition? Help in your work?

Can I afford it?
Check that you can afford the time, energy and money to give to your learning. For useful help and advice, visit learndirect careers advice's funding pages.

What's in it for me?
Be clear about why you've chosen your learning path. Do you really want that qualification? Will you get a pay rise when you complete the course? Do you want people to see you in a new light? Or do you simply want to feel proud of your achievement?

If you can confidently answer each of these key questions, you have the foundations you need for successful, motivated learning. You know what you're planning to learn, why, how, when and where. Now go for it!

And don't forget…
if one or more of our key questions leave you struggling, why not talk it through with a trusted friend or colleague? Alternatively, you can call the learndirect careers advice line on 0800 100 900 for friendly, up-to-date advice.

So, thinking of getting involved in learning again?
Good for you. Today's over 50s have learning opportunities like no other generation before us and we can take advantage of every kind of course you could imagine.

It's a brilliant time to top up on the skills you've always wanted, lost along the way, or even those that you've never managed to get to grips with in the past. And armed with a clear idea of how you can be a motivated, successful learner, there's never been a better time to start.

Check out the following links for a host of tips and ideas on planning and starting your learning journey.

Have you got a story to tell? Or any comments or questions about this article? If so, contact us today!

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