Which learning method suits you?

There are many ways of learning available to us, and if we have an understanding of which method suits us best our learning will be far more successful.

Below, you will find a variety of learning methods - none of which include a blackboard! As you read through them, think about the methods which work best for you.

Coaching
Coaching allows people to develop skills in a controlled, yet flexible, environment. It is not about being 'taught', but being helped to learn through experience. This type of learning draws on the experience of the coach to guide and assist the learner through the problems and pitfalls of a task in a real work situation. The coach will also help the learner to review tasks to improve future performance.

Mentoring
A mentor is an experienced and trusted adviser. They can be a manager, a colleague, or any skilled and experienced person. A mentor can give useful advice and insights, and can also set informal development tasks to improve our knowledge. A learner and a mentor will, over time, build a relationship based on trust and focused on development.

Shadowing
One of the most popular traditional methods of learning is to observe or shadow an expert while they work. As long as the learning is monitored, and reviews and standards are applied, this can be a very useful way of learning specific skills.

Courses
This is the most traditional way of learning - being led by a specialist in a particular topic. There are many different traditional education and training courses available to you. Visit the learndirect careers advice website to find a course in your area.

Networking
Networking is about making and maintaining effective contacts. This encourages you to consider and involve others in your learning activities. For example, by lending someone a copy of a report, sending them a website reference or passing on some useful tips, you can then expect to receive similar support yourself.

Group or team sessions
This is an effective way of learning that offers excellent opportunities for team building and team development. It's also a great way of learning from other people and sharing your own expertise.

Flexible/open/e-learning
This involves working through a programme of study alone. The great advantage of this approach is that it allows you to be self-motivating and self-managing. It also allows you to study where, when and how you choose. However, depending on your learning style, you could also feel quite isolated.

Which of the above sources or methods of learning: