How To Become A Lifelong Learner

How to Become a Lifelong Learner
Abraham Lincoln said, "I do not think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday."[1]
This opens the premise that learning is a daily adventure that one carries and explores throughout life.
Learning doesn't stop just because school does. People who are truly effective generally did not get that
way by sitting still; they apply themselves to constant learning and competing against themselves to
grow and learn day by day. Making a commitment to yourself to learn something new every day, you
will not only enjoy what you discover, but you will be able to apply your knowledge and become a
teacher to future generations.
Steps
Learn how you learn. Determine your own preferred learning style or styles. Note what learning
techniques are most efficient for you and use them as much as is practical, such as viewing online
tutorials on websites like YouTube if you're more of a visual learner.
Most people learn through multiple methods but favor one or two. Use your preferences to your
advantage.
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Learn where your talents and interests lie. Try many different things so that you don't box yourself into
believing you're only good at a few things. It's probable that you're good at many things, but you won't
know until you've tried.
Be wary of past memories that tell you to stay away from certain things. This can soon inhibit you from
trying a lot of new things if taken to an extreme. As you grow you develop more experience,
coordination, responsiveness, and confidence that one experience can't teach, but you can apply to re-
learning an old experience. For example, if you had a bad experience riding a horse when younger, not
getting back on a horse when you're older and calmer might mean you miss out on a trek of a lifetime.
Or, you might have hated certain sports, tastes or activities when younger because of your lack of
experience, strength or maturity. All these things change as you mature, develop, and adjust to new
environments. Be careful not to let past experiences like these cut off opportunities for you now.
Image titled Colorful Hiker in Calero County Park 1127
Look at learning as an exploration and opportunity, not a chore. Don't just force yourself to learn things
because they're important or necessary. Instead, learn things that you need to learn alongside things
you love to learn. Follow your heart, as well as your sense of duty. Do you remember the 8th grade
history that you hated so much, with all those names and dates that seemed to mean nothing? The
point was to bring you to learn details now that will knit chunks of information together later. It was a
chore then, but it makes sense, now.
Even when you're learning the things you have to, such as on-the-job knowledge, seek to go beyond
what you're being asked to learn. Look at the history, case studies, different applications, etc., to make
your learning experience much more well-rounded.
Learn the basics. It can be a grind at times, but you'll be able to remember, connect and figure out all
kinds of complicated things through relatively few, simple building blocks if you learn some math and
natural-science concepts.[2] You can look up precise formulas and trivia again later, but the concepts
will do the most good and save a lot of time in repeated look-ups if mostly learned by heart.[3] Try some
free OpenCourseWare, TED Talks or iTunes University for comprehensive presentations from famous
professors and experts in their fields.
Mix learning the basics with more fun learning, like intellectual hobbies and games. Don't space them
out so far that you forget what came before in a sequence; a half-class or class every day or two might
be a good pace. Check into DIY U for a list of colleges and institutions that offer low cost or free courses.
If you find complex math very unintuitive in isolation, you can look it up as you learn things that use it.
Without seeing the applications, it's hard to distinguish the concepts you need from the computational
tricks most people don't.
Read books by people who experienced difficulties with the basics of math, science or other subjects but
have still managed to find workarounds without giving up. Their ways of learning might help you to
improve your own.
Image titled 117971703_c4381b62fd
Read, read, read. Make friends with your local library and new and used book sellers. Reading is a portal
into other worlds and into the minds of your fellow human beings. Through reading you will never stop
learning and being amazed by the incredible creativity, intelligence and yes, even banality, of the human
species. Wise people read lots of books, all the time; it's as simple as that. And reading will help you to
learn the discoveries and mistakes of others who have gone before you; reading is, in effect, a shortcut
so that you don't have to learn things the hard way.
Read all sorts of books. Just because you're usually a mystery fan doesn't mean you shouldn't try
nonfiction now and then. Don't limit yourself.
Recognize the educational value in whatever you read. Nonfiction, of course, teaches about its subject.
Fiction, freed from that constraint, can teach more about good writing, storytelling, vocabulary, and
human nature generally. Indeed, fiction will tell you a great deal about the mores, morals, thinking and
habits of the time during which it was written, and it is also said that fiction readers are more
empathetic than those who avoid it because it teaches us about interacting in the social world.[4]
Newspapers, magazines, manuals, and comic books are all worth reading. As are websites, blogs,
reviews and other online sources of information.
Image titled Flyfish1 600
Broaden your definition of learning. Take a look at the Theory of Multiple Intelligences if you don't know
it yet. Consider how you might fit in, and where you can improve.
Refine your existing skills. Are you already good at fly fishing? Computers? Teaching? Playing
saxophone? Hone these skills and take them to the next level.
Try new things, both inside and outside your preferred skill areas.
Do things outside your vocation. As an adult, your experience may be your best teacher. Whether you
work for pay or volunteer your time, focus on a project or tinker with whatever grabs your attention, try
lots of things and notice the results. Apply the results to other things in your life, to expand the value of
what you've learned. You never know when an opportune discovery might arise as a result of your
observations and innovative approaches.
Image titled Pink Garden 2112
Create. Not all learning comes from outside you. In fact, some of the most powerful learning happens
when you are creating or formulating something for yourself. Creation, like intelligence, can be artistic
or scientific; physical or intellectual; social or solitary. Try different media and methods and refine the
ones you like the most.
Image titled Snail2 3326

Observe. Look more closely at your world, and examine both the usual and the unusual. Also, look at the
world from different levels. Chances are you already respond differently to the news of a friend than to
the news of a country, for example.
Respond to what you observe, and notice and examine your own response.
Be mindful; if you find that it's difficult to observe things for long enough, consider meditating. This will
help you to learn to see things you haven't noticed since you were a young child.
Image titled The_joy_of_teaching 2261
10
Take classes, both formal and informal. No matter how dedicated an autodidact you are, some subjects
are best learned with the aid of a teacher. Remember that a teacher may be found in a classroom, but
also in an office, a neighbor's garage, a store, a restaurant, or a taxicab. The teacher may also be a
mentor or a guide of some sort in your life, such as a life coach or counselor.
Several of the world's best universities provide videos and materials for their courses free over the
Internet as the "Open CourseWare" project[5]. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is an
exceptional contributor, with hundreds of courses.[6] You can also use iTunes University, which can be
viewed via your computer or your portable electronic devices.
11
Ask questions. Asking the right questions can be more important than having the answers. It can also
turn just about anybody into a teacher. Be sure to listen closely and understand the response.
Sometimes a response is difficult to understand. Feel free to take notes, ask more questions and to
break down the response into smaller components to try to make sense of it. Return to your preferred
learning style––if something is easier drawn in pictures, then draw it out to help make better sense of it.
Keep a journal or notebook to record what you learn and what questions you still have. Questions can
teach as much as, or more than, answers. A journal or notebook can also record your progress.
12
Evaluate and reflect on what you learn. Does it make sense? Is it true? Who said so? How was it
determined? Can it be verified? Is an argument or piece of advice logical, valuable, applicable?
Read How to develop critical thinking skills and How to improve critical thinking skills for more ideas on
ways to evaluate what you're learning.
13
Apply what you learn. This is the best way to test it and it will help you learn it more completely and
retain it longer. It will also help you to discover flaws and strengths in your learning, which is how we
progress the sum of human knowledge. Who knows what you may be about to discover, uncover or link
together?
14
Harness the power of play. Plenty of learning comes from the process of experimenting, tinkering, and
just being silly. Take time to mess around and try new things without pressure.
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15
Teach others. Teaching is a wonderful way to learn a subject better and improve your own
understanding of it. If you're not a teacher or tutor, you can write about your knowledge in a wiki,
where you and other contributors will know you can return to see something even better, or forum, or
simply volunteer an answer when somebody asks.
Joseph Joubert once said that "To teach is to learn twice." In teaching others how to learn things, you
will find that you learn even more than the students. Not only will you need to have a good grasp of
your materials, you will need to respond to the querying minds of your students and extend your
understanding beyond what you have considered it to be up to the point of each question asked of you.
Community Q&A
What is an autodidact?
wikiHow Contributor
An autodidact is a self-taught person. Self-teaching can be done through textbooks, internet research,
educational videos, and many other sources.
Not Helpful 0 Helpful 7
If I had to practice above facts, am I sure to be wise?
wikiHow Contributor
It doesn't necessarily guarantee that you'll be wise (wisdom is so much more than the desire or ability to
acquire knowledge), but you'll definitely learn new things.
How can you learn things beyond your grade level?
wikiHow Contributor
You can take university classes or join Honors or AP classes at your school. The internet is also a great
place to learn about things, so you can also search for information about the topics that interest you.
Unanswered Questions
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Tips
Test yourself. Read college notes, take CLEP tests, challenge or audit college courses, etc.
Do what works best for you. Life isn't a dress rehearsal, so make the most of it.
Leave your perfectionism behind. Experiment, make mistakes, and ask silly questions. If you wait until
you know it all, you'll be waiting a long time.
Another good way to learn is to find people that are either learning the same things you are, or already
know them. Just being around those people and conversing with them will put you much farther ahead
compared to studying in isolation.
Sleep, exercise, and eat properly. Your overall health will influence how much you can effectively learn.
Have fun. Fun is a very important part of learning, especially as an adult. It is a big part of your
motivation to continue.
Keep an open mind. Some of the greatest scientific, mathematical, artistic, and other advances came
from questioning conventional wisdom and being open to unusual results and new, different ways of
doing things. And don't presume that because you're not an expert or that it's "not your area", that you
don't have a contribution. Learned, enthused and observant outsiders can often see connections, gaps
and new ways forward that those deeply embedded in their profession, expertise or trade miss.
Learn something for its own sake. Just because it's there. Explore freely. Learn trivia, and expand into
self-directed course learning.
Warnings
If you get good at learning and find that you know more than most people around you, be careful that
you don't turn into a know-it-all.
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Sources and Citations
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↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cache
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How to Find the Right Online Continuing Education School Program
Online continuing education is a fast-growing market that is becoming more and more acceptable in the
work place - as long as you choose a legitimate online education program.
Steps
Image titled Find the Right Online Continuing Education School Program Step 1
1
Verify the institution is "recognized" through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation's Web site
at http://www.ncahlc.org. ("The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) database lists
approximately 7,000 degree-granting and non-degree-granting institutions and over 17,000 programs
that are accredited by United States accrediting organizations that have been recognized either by CHEA
or by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or both.") Accreditation is necessary for
recognition by your employer as well as recognition by other higher education institutions (i.e., in case
you want to pursue an advanced degree).
Image titled Find the Right Online Continuing Education School Program Step 2
Make sure the price is right. Find out up-front - before you pay an application fee exactly how much
tuition is and make sure that you have a full picture of all costs including any access fees, texts, other
required purchases,etc. You have to be positive you can afford the tuition costs. Keep in mind that many
companies have strong tuition reimbursement options. Although online education is generally more
affordable than a comparable campus-based education, it is not cheap, so make sure you get your
money's worth and know exactly what you are enrolling for.
Check out the teachers. Ask about their experience - either real-world or academic - and make sure they
are worthy of educating you on the area you are pursuing. It is important that they have the knowledge
necessary to do the job. As a point of reference, most associate or junior college teachers have at least a
master's degree in the subject they teach, and the majority of full college professors have a PhD. in their
area of expertise. Your online education teachers should have comparable levels of education.
Make sure you will get any needed attention. Try to pin down at least a guideline for student-teacher
ratios. Unlike classroom learning, it is possible to have an almost unlimited number of students in an
online class, but obviously if the class size is enormous, you will not get the same sort of quality time
with the teachers as you would in a smaller class. Making sure your teachers are not overburdened can
help you get the education you deserve.
Evaluate the history of the school. Schools develop their reputations for producing quality students -
who get the job done at the companies that hire them - over time, so for the most part, the longer the
school has existed, the better.
Evaluate your fellow students. What is the total school enrollment and what percentage of students
graduate? They should be able to tell you how many students are currently enrolled. A large amount of
students shows both stability and future name recognition in the job market. Also, a higher graduation
rate is a great indication that students are very satisfied with the programs at that school. Be leery if
they do not share these data points with you.
Determine what resources they will require you to have. Most online classes require that students have
access to a computer and may require certain levels of hardware in order to adequately handle and run
up-to-date multimedia and word processing types of programs. They may also require certain levels of
Internet access. So make sure your equipment is up to the task, or that you are budgeted for buying new
equipment. In terms of software, many online programs provide all the materials you need directly from
their site, but some may require you to buy supplemental software on your own.
Determine what resources the school provides to you. Top online degree programs offer great access to
"virtual libraries" and other resources to help you through your education.
Make sure the length of time needed to earn a degree works for you. The length of time required to
earn your degree can vary widely in the online education world, so make sure you know exactly how
long each program you are considering takes and determine which best fits in with your time frame.
Some online schools will allow you to complete tasks at your own pace, while others require that
students participate in virtual class sessions and have specific deadlines for assignments.
10
Look into what forms of communication are available for you to get in touch with the school/teachers.
You want to know if all communications are done online or if you can also call if you need help or have
questions. Some schools even offer actual campus locations you can go to for certain classes, sessions or
extra help. The more options available to you the better, but at a minimum, the school should have a
legitimate phone number for you to reach them at.
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Accreditation and a good match to your desired degree programs are the two main keys.
Warnings
Watch out for non-accredited online degree mills that teach you nothing. If it sounds too good to be
true, it probably is!
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How to Motivate Adult Learners
Adult learners can be some of the most difficult to motivate. Unlike elementary age people, they do not
respond as well to immediate reinforcer like candy, stickers, or high fives and loud praise. Unlike
secondary school students, the delayed gratification of earning good grades and the carrot on the end of
the stick - college and a good career with matching salary sometime within the next decade - is useless
as well. They're adults. They are either in a class voluntarily, in which case you won't need to do much to
motivate them, or they are there because they are forced to be in some way or another. Usually family
obligation (if you're not in school you're not living under my roof for free! said my mother). Or career
obligation (no GED, no job). Most likely it is the latter type of student you are working with - the type
who is forced to be in your class, more or less against their will.
Steps
Image titled Memorize French ER Present Tense Verbs Using Visual Imagery Mnemonics Step 9
1
Assert yourself as the type of leader that the students would like to follow and learn from. The best way
to work with adults is to respect the fact that they're essentially your equal once you leave the
classroom. Try to assert the kind of image that allows them to respect your outside of the classroom,
too.
Image titled Memorize French ER Present Tense Verbs Using Visual Imagery Mnemonics Step 11
Structure your class. Set expectations on day one and hold all students accountable for their actions.
Make no exceptions for the first couple of meetings, too. Own your class and control the direction it
goes in, you will find that the students will choose to follow or to leave. Luckily, they are adults, and you
do not have to put up with their displeasure. If they don't behave appropriately, YOU have every right to
ask them to leave.
Have high expectations and your students will naturally want to achieve highly. If they stumble and
don't perform to your expectations, give them fair and honest grades. If they come to you seeking help,
assist them in identifying their specific problem areas and provide resources that the student can use to
improve their skills. That is just plain good teaching and it works for all students at all ages.
Relax on the last day. Be the kind of teacher that is interesting and fun. Don't be so by-the-book that the
students find you dry, but don't be wild and unpredictable. Maintain strictly professional relationships
with students, but feel free to loosen your tie, or let down your hair, when the occasion calls for it. They
are adults. You're not their role model, though you might be their mentor.
experience.
Community Q&A
I am a tutor. I want to be a good motivator. What should I do?
wikiHow Contributor
A tutor should be, in essence, a motivator first and a teacher second. You need to find ways to excite
learning in your students, not just drive them towards rote memorization or strict testing. If you use a
rewards system (such as a piece of chocolate for a correct answer), you are not innately motivating your
students, but actually hindering their learning process. You need to create intrinsic learning goals so the
student(s) get fired up about the subject matter on their own. Show them innovative ways to solve
problems, show them what kind of future can open up, be honest with them. Competition, familiar
subjects and practicality can be places to start.
How can we compete with others without saying them as a student?
Ask a Question
Submit
Tips
Research some basic classroom behavior management techniques. Generally the theories used to
development effective strategies for the public elementary and high school classroom can be modified
to fit a classroom full of adults. The average person, no matter the age, tends to respond to same kind of
positive attention and reinforcement. Only the reinforcer tends to change - for example, a kindergarten
child gets a sticker, a high school student gets homework pass or free time in class, an adult gets
recommended for new projects, encouraged to further their studies, or makes professional connections.
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How to Take Online Distance Education Classes
Online classes offer a convenient way to complete many fully accredited classes, certificates and
degrees, but they aren't an easy way out. If you are new to online classes, ask questions and consider
your goals before attempting courses online. Information for high school and college students.
Steps
Image titled Take Online Distance Education Classes Step 1
Make sure online learning fits your learning style. Online classes typically involve lots of reading and
writing. If you don’t learn as well from reading or dislike writing, you’ll have a more difficult time
learning online. Everything "said" in the online classroom is written in the form of messages. An
advantage of this is that it eliminates note-taking. Every word is captured in an online classroom and can
usually be referred to throughout the quarter to help on tests, papers and projects.
Image titled Take Online Distance Education Classes Step 2
Be realistic about your computer skills and computer access. In most online classrooms you’ll be
expected to use standard Internet tools such as a Web browser and email, and may be required to
download and install additional software on your computer. You may need regular (often daily) reliable
access to a computer and the Internet. You’ll need basic computer skills, to be able to save, rename and
manage files and copy and paste text.
Carefully select a college or university or virtual high school. Make sure the program is accredited or
recommended by your school counselor and that the degrees, certificates or classes offered meet your
educational goals. Look for a mature online program with a rich variety of courses leading to complete
degrees or certificates. Make sure the school provides educational value that satisfies your financial
requirements. Spend time going through the Web site to find out what other services are available
online. This is important for students who may rarely (or never!) set foot on campus. Look for online
technical support and advising, financial aid, registration and an online bookstore and library.
You may discover many community colleges have gone into Internet learning in a big way...but be aware
of tuition and fees. Community colleges may charge higher fees for "out of district" students. There are
some (for instance, Oakton Community College in Des Plaines, IL) which do not discriminate between "in
district" and "out of district" students on Internet courses. "Out of District" students are charged the
same as "In District" students. This could be a large saving for many seeking to take several Internet-
based classes from an accredited institution.
5
Expect to work and participate. Online classes typically require the same amount of work and
interaction as a traditional college course. Plan to spend 5 to 12 hours each week on the class depending
on the difficulty and your abilities. Good online courses create active virtual classrooms and students are
expected to participate in weekly discussions and assignments and online group activities. Many classes
expect you to be able to check email and log into the classroom a number of times each week.
Set realistic expectations for online courses. Schedule time for personal emergencies and computer
problems. Notify your instructor as soon as you realize you have a problem that may result in you
missing the deadline for an assignment or test.
experience.
Community Q&A
Can I get a scholarship for my online studies?

wikiHow Contributor
Most likely, yes. However, you will have to check the requirements of each particular scholarship before
applying to make sure that it isn't limited to certain institutions.
How do I copy and paste text?
wikiHow Contributor
On Windows: hold "Control" (Ctrl) + "C" to Copy then "Control" (Ctrl) + "V" to Paste On Mac:
"Command" + "C" to Copy then "Command" + "V" to paste
What is the best college in Dubai for distance learning?
wikiHow Contributor
Al Ghurair University is a great school in Dubai. University of Dubai is good too.
If I am taking online classes, how do I take an exam?
wikiHow Contributor
It depends on the class you are taking. Online classes may have quizzes, peer-reviewed assignments,
online proctored exams or offline exams. A combination of these also may apply.
Where do I put my notes for an online class?
wikiHow Contributor
Use the "notepad" page for your notes, or put them on another page. The notepad page is to get notes
for an online class, so you can use those instead of having to memorize everything.
Can I get a scholarship to continue my foreign master's degree studies online?

If you made a step-by-step guideline from picking the online school to how you would pay to registering
etc. How would it look from beginning to end?
How much data does an online class use?
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Tips
Work with a college adviser or school counselor to find out what online courses you can take and what
degrees or certificates you can complete online.
Always study at least 3 or 4 hours a day. This will help keep you from falling behind. If you have the
online schooling that is asynchronous then try to do it as much as possible.
Ask about scholarships.
Warnings
Not having a teacher to push you is hard, so you need to push yourself.
Do not procrastinate. Since online classrooms offer more flexibility, students need to have strong self-
management skills. It’s best to create a regular time throughout the week, free from distractions, to
concentrate on your online class.
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Español: tomar clases a distancia vía online
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How to Know the Importance of Education
Three Parts:Preparing for Your FutureOvercoming InequalityRecognizing the Social Benefits of an

EducationCommunity Q&A
Getting an education is important, as most career paths require at least some education and training.
Though the decision to continue your education is a personal choice, it's worth considering if knowledge
and experience are important to you. If you have any career goals, you will most likely need an
education to achieve those goals. Learning the importance of an education can help motivate you to
learn more and achieve great things.
Part
Preparing for Your Future
Image titled Know the Importance of Education Step 1
Decide on your career goals. If you've thought about your future at all, you probably have some idea of
what you want to do as a career. No matter what your goal is, it will probably require some degree of
education.[1]
Search online for information about your desired career, or talk to professionals working in that field.
There is a good chance that anyone you talk to will tell you that you'll need an education in order to
enter that field. Note that the kind of education you will need may vary: some fields require formal
college education, while others may lean more towards specialty training in the field.
In the United States, only 27 percent of jobs available nationwide require less than a high school degree.
By contrast, students who have graduated from high school are deemed qualified for 39 percent of jobs
available nationwide.[2]
Many people drop out of school thinking that they would rather work than be in school, but statistics
show that the majority of high school dropouts are unemployed and have little or no source of
income.[3]
Image titled Know the Importance of Education Step 2
Get a better job. Even if the career you've chosen doesn't require an advanced education to break into
the field, you will most likely need an education if you want to get promoted or earn a higher-paying
job.[4]
People who have completed an advanced education typically make more money than people who have
not gone to school.[5] For example, in the United States, median weekly earnings in 2014 for people
with only a high school diploma were $751 (men) and $558 (women).[6] In contrast, the median weekly
earnings for people with least a bachelor's degree were $1385 (men) and $1049 (women) in 2014. For
people with an advanced degree, the median weekly wage was even higher: $1630 (men) and $1185
(women).[7]
Having a high school diploma dramatically increase the chances of earning a job over high school
dropouts. That number continues to rise as students pursue higher education through college and
graduate school.[8]
3
Find better opportunities. Getting an education opens a lot of professional doors for you. It can help you
learn new skills, make professional connections, and generally have greater success.[9]
People who have completed an advanced education often have more and better opportunities available
to them because of their education.[10]
Even if you have not completed a high school diploma, completing vocational training (education
emphasizing a particular trade, such as electrician) will likely increase your income level and ability to
find a job.[11] If you have a high school education and vocational training, you are a much more
attractive candidate for jobs.
Part
Overcoming Inequality
Overcome income inequality. Studies have shown that having an education - even a primary education -
can help low-income workers earn more money and find a better economic situation.[12]
Employers look for educational achievements. Even having a high school degree will reduce the risk of
unemployment and increase the average lifetime earnings of most working adults.[13]
In the United States, 54 percent of high school dropouts between the ages of 16 and 24 are
unemployed. For high school graduates, that number decreases to 32 percent of people in the same age
bracket, and it decreases even further to 13 percent of college graduates.[14]
Live a better life. Beyond the professional opportunities that an education affords people, having an
education may also be correlated with living a better life in general. Some studies suggest that people
who stay in school are less likely to end up having legal troubles later in life.[15]
College graduates with a bachelor's degree earn an average of $1.64 million dollars more than high
school dropouts over the course of a lifetime. High school graduates earn an average of $429,280 more
than high school dropouts over the course of a lifetime.[16]
Having an education (and subsequently getting a better job) may make people less likely to commit
crimes for fear of losing what they've worked for.[17]
The average high school dropout in America has a one in 10 chance of being arrested, whereas the
average high school graduate only has a one in 35 chance of being arrested.[18]
Some studies suggest having an education can also make people more patient, and therefore less likely
to be overcome by anger or violent tendencies.[19]
Help your family. Having an education is typically associated with an increased ability to provide for your
family. That means not only being able to help financially support your family, but also providing
younger relatives with a positive role model, and inspiring them to pursue an education.[20]
Part
Recognizing the Social Benefits of an Education
Live a longer life. Some studies suggest that having a higher education can help you live a longer life.[21]
This may be because of better working conditions that come with an education, or it could be because
earning an education helped remove people from adverse domestic situations. Whatever the cause,
many studies show that even earning a high school education significantly decreases the likelihood of
dying young.[22]
Young men who graduate high school statistically live an average of seven years longer than male high
school dropouts. Young women who graduate high school live an average of six years longer than
female high school dropouts.[23]
Young men who graduate college statistically live an average of 13 years longer than male high school
dropouts, and an average of six years longer than male high school graduates who do not go to college.
Young women who graduate college live an average of 12 years longer than female high school
dropouts, and an average of six years longer than female high school graduates who do not go to
college.[24]
Be happier in life. In addition to living a longer life, people who pursue an education tend to be happier
in life.[25] That's because having an education has been shown to make people better problem solvers
who are better equipped to manage day-to-day problems.[26]
Some studies suggest that simply earning an education, regardless of subsequent income or job
contentment, helps people have better mental health later in life.[27]
3
Find more fulfillment in life. Some studies suggest that people who have completed an education are
more likely to pursue things that offer personal fulfillment.[28]
Flow, a term used to describe meaningful and satisfying absorption in a task, is often associated with
educational advancement.[29] In other words, having an education may help you find hobbies or
passions that give you a sense of fulfillment.
Many schools encourage flow, whether intentionally or not, by offering a stimulating learning
environment and meaningful extracurricular activities to students who might not otherwise have those
opportunities.[30]
experience.
Community Q&A
Why is education the key to a brighter future?
wikiHow Contributor
Many things you need in life can be taught through education which also betters your thinking capacity
so you can solve problems more easily.
After thanking our parents, is it our teachers that we should thank next?
wikiHow Contributor
Yes. Your teachers, along with your parents, will obviously be of importance in your educational path.
Can I do anything with the help of education?
wikiHow Contributor
You can do a lot with education. What you choose to do with it is up to you.
Is education the key to solving our problems?
wikiHow Contributor
Education teaches you to solve problems in many different areas, which trains your brain to approach
and solve problems you encounter in everyday life.
What is secondary education?
wikiHow Contributor
In the United States, secondary education is high school, typically grades 9-12.
Can I get a good job if I'm not educated?
wikiHow Contributor
Yes, but it's much more difficult to get a good job with a high salary if you lack an education.
How does learning change or transform thinking?
Govindapuri
It really depends on what you learn, how you learn and how you are taught. To change thinking ability
through education doesn't seem easy, but if you focus, then you can change almost anything through
education.
Tips about how education is a key to success?
Why is our government not taking part to things that most of people out their struggling to get proper
facility through education and provide the illiterate people a chance of gaining education?
Do you have any suggestions for an introduction for an essay on the role of education in human capital?
Ask a Question
Submit
Tips
Don't be discouraged by poor grades. Studying, getting tutoring, and going to review sessions can help
you perform better in school.
Don't let financial issues keep you from going to school. Scholarships and loans are always available to
students who want to attend school, and having an education can help you earn a higher salary for the
rest of your life.
If you have the opportunity to earn an education, don't take it for granted. There are plenty of people
who would love to have the same opportunity to go to school.
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↑ http://www.deni.gov.uk/index/pupils-and-parents/pupils/why-do-i-need-to-attend-school.htm
↑ http://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2014/article/education-level-and-jobs.htm
↑ http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/09/education/09dropout.html?_r=1
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Article Info
Categories: Education and Communications
In other languages:
Español: conocer la importancia de la educación, 中文: 了解教育的重要性, Italiano: Comprendere

l'Importanza dell'Istruzione, Русский: осознать важность образования, Português: Reconhecer a
Importância da Educação, Deutsch: Wissen, wie wichtig Bildung ist, Français: prendre conscience de
l'importance de l'éducation, Bahasa Indonesia: Mengetahui Pentingnya Pendidikan
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Ph.D. in English
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Mar 25, 2017

"The article is great for accounting for the advantages of education with so much valuable and detailed
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Edit Article
How to Help Improve the Education System
Four Methods:Supporting PoliticiansEncouraging Policy ChangeRaising Money for EducationImproving

Education as an Elected OfficialCommunity Q&A
If you aren’t happy with your government’s education system, you may be wondering what you can do
to make it better. While improving the education system isn’t easy, there are ways that you can make a
positive impact.
Quick Summary
To improve the education system, familiarize yourself with different political candidates and vote for the
ones who prioritize education improvement. Advocate for educational reform by writing letters to
public officials about educational needs, spreading the word on social media, and marching in the
annual March for Public Education if you’re in the United States. Also, donate to nonprofit organizations
or raise money for specific educational needs in your community. To learn how to help you can help as
an elected official, read on!
Did this summary help you?YesNo
Method
Supporting Politicians
Image titled Help Improve the Education System Step 1
Familiarize yourself with different candidates’ stances. Educate yourself on the upcoming elections in
order to get to know the different candidates and what they stand for. Watch the news and debates on
TV, and do some research online on websites like USA.gov to stay informed and to determine which
candidates you should support in order to help improve the education system.[1]
Pay attention to all elections, from local board of education elections to presidential elections. These are
all important and influential in different ways.
If you aren’t sure which candidate values education more, consider supporting the one who wants to
support and encourage teachers, improve school structure, and/or make higher education more
accessible.[2]
Display paraphernalia that advertises your preferred candidate’s name. Show support for your preferred
candidate publicly by wearing t-shirts, hats, and buttons that display their name. You can also put signs
in your yard or bumper stickers on your car that have the candidate’s name on them.
This may make family, friends, and others who you come in contact with interested in learning more
about the candidate, which could eventually lead to more votes for them.
Volunteer for a campaign. Political campaigns often rely heavily on volunteers to spread the word and
seek out support. Contact your preferred candidate’s office via email or phone and ask how you can
help. They’ll likely have something for you to do, such as stuff mailers or put up signs around town.[3]
Vote for politicians who value education improvement. After gaining a solid understanding of which
candidates prioritize education and which don’t, register to vote if you haven’t already. On election day,
go vote for the candidate who prioritizes education. Voting will bring your preferred candidate that
much closer to winning and improving the education system.[4]
Method
Encouraging Policy Change
Educate yourself on education policies through the media. Do some research online and/or watch the
news to develop an understanding of how your government functions as a whole, how the education
system specifically works, and also to learn about what’s going on currently in education. By doing this,
you’ll be able to pinpoint flaws in the education system and start thinking about possible solutions.[5]
For example, you might watch the news and see a story about the public school teacher turnover rate
being at an all-time high. This might make you think about ways that the government could better
support teachers so that they feel more motivated to work hard and to stay in their positions.
Participate in rallies and other events. There are often rallies and marches that are planned in order to
display support for reform on a large scale. Look into education-related political rallies in your area and
take part in them. Additionally, if an important political leader makes a decision that doesn’t benefit the
education system, you can participate in peaceful protest.[6]
The March for Public Education occurs annually in Washington, D.C. and in cities all across the United
States.
For example, if the president makes budget cuts in schools across the nation, people may come together
to protest against this decision.
Write letters to elected officials. If there isn’t an election soon, you can also do your best to influence
the people who are currently in office. Get the contact information of the official you want to talk to.
Then, write a clear, cohesive, formal letter or email that articulates your concerns and ideas.[7]
If you’re looking for the contact information of an elected official in the United States, you should be
able to find it at https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials.
4
Inform a large audience through social media. Social media has become a major tool used to express
political thoughts and opinions. It’s also used to inform people of current political events. Use this
platform to reach all of your friends, family members, and acquaintances. Post educational articles and
your personal thoughts on sites like Facebook and Twitter.[8]
You can also post pictures of your “I Voted” sticker after voting to encourage others to hit the polls.
Make sure to be kind and respectful in how you share political viewpoints on social media sites, or else
others may not read your posts or take them seriously.
Run to be on your local school board. School board duties vary depending on where you live, but most
of them are made up of a group of elected unpaid volunteers who are governed by bylaws. The board
makes decisions about funding, school calendars, and many other things. To run, reach out to your
town, city, or county clerk to find out if you’re eligible. If you are eligible, the clerk should give you all of
the paperwork you’ll need to complete and submit in order to run.[9]
Keep in mind that while being on the school board can give you influence and power, it can also be
demanding and time-consuming. Be ready to spend at least 25 hours a month on school board activity if
you’re elected.
Method
Raising Money for Education
Donate to an education-focused nonprofit organization. There are many nonprofit organizations that
focus on different aspects of education. Do some research online to find one that you’re passionate
about, and make donations to the organization in order to help them improve the education system in
one way or another.[10]
If you think that the education system would benefit the most from supporting teachers better, check
out https://www.donorschoose.org.
If you want your money to go to an organization that helps in a variety of ways, including funding
specific school projects and providing breakfasts for students, go to
https://www.neafoundation.org/donate/.
Start a fundraising page for a local school. If you want to help on a more local level, this may be a good
option. Contact schools in your community and see what kind of help they need. Then, go to a site like
GoFundMe, at https://funds.gofundme.com/dashboard/create, and create a fundraiser page for it.[11]
Many people have started GoFundMe pages and successfully raised money through them for
educational field trips, new playgrounds, classroom tablets, and more.
Organize a fun local fundraising event or contest. A great way to get people to donate to a cause is by
creating a fundraising opportunity that they can have fun with. Organize an event, and charge a
reasonable amount for tickets or sale items. Then, donate all of the proceeds to a specific education-
related need in your community.[12]
Brainstorm fun events that people may like to participate in, such as holiday parties, road races, jump
rope contests, auctions, and garage sales.
Method
Improving Education as an Elected Official
Hold underperforming schools accountable so that they evolve. Push for more frequent and extensive
evaluations of individual schools. Brainstorm potential consequences for low testing scores and then
implement them so that the teachers and administrators at schools are more motivated to help their
students test well.[13]
This should help keep individual schools from slipping through the cracks by encouraging all public
schools to strive for the same standard.
Allow parents to choose where their children attend to motivate schools. Push for school choice, so that
parents have the ability to move their children to a better school if the one they’re currently attending is
failing. This can also act as a motivator for teachers and administrators to provide the best education
possible, so that the most motivated students want to attend their school.[14]
Support technology in the classroom to vary the learning process. Innovation provides learning
alternatives and can also make learning more efficient. Encourage innovation and allocate money
towards it if possible, as new technologies can aid students with learning disabilities, serve as an
alternative teaching method, and engage students more.[15]
Push higher standards and support STEM programs to prepare students. Support higher standards in
curriculum and also encourage programs like STEM that teach students about subject areas that are
highly valued in the working world. This should help more students graduate high school, get into
college, and become successful in the long run.[16]
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math.
experience.
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↑ http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/15/politics/ways-to-be-more-politically-active-trnd/index.html
↑ https://bid4papers.com/blog/usa-education-system/
↑ http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/15/politics/ways-to-be-more-politically-active-trnd/index.html
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How to Become a Lifelong Learner
Abraham Lincoln said, "I do not think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday."[1]
This opens the premise that learning is a daily adventure that one carries and explores throughout life.
Learning doesn't stop just because school does. People who are truly effective generally did not get that
way by sitting still; they apply themselves to constant learning and competing against themselves to
grow and learn day by day. Making a commitment to yourself to learn something new every day, you
will not only enjoy what you discover, but you will be able to apply your knowledge and become a
teacher to future generations.
Steps
Learn how you learn. Determine your own preferred learning style or styles. Note what learning
techniques are most efficient for you and use them as much as is practical, such as viewing online
tutorials on websites like YouTube if you're more of a visual learner.
Most people learn through multiple methods but favor one or two. Use your preferences to your
advantage.
Image titled Leiden straatmuzikantenconcours 6721
Learn where your talents and interests lie. Try many different things so that you don't box yourself into
believing you're only good at a few things. It's probable that you're good at many things, but you won't
know until you've tried.
Be wary of past memories that tell you to stay away from certain things. This can soon inhibit you from
trying a lot of new things if taken to an extreme. As you grow you develop more experience,
coordination, responsiveness, and confidence that one experience can't teach, but you can apply to re-
learning an old experience. For example, if you had a bad experience riding a horse when younger, not
getting back on a horse when you're older and calmer might mean you miss out on a trek of a lifetime.
Or, you might have hated certain sports, tastes or activities when younger because of your lack of
experience, strength or maturity. All these things change as you mature, develop, and adjust to new
environments. Be careful not to let past experiences like these cut off opportunities for you now.
Image titled Colorful Hiker in Calero County Park 1127
Look at learning as an exploration and opportunity, not a chore. Don't just force yourself to learn things
because they're important or necessary. Instead, learn things that you need to learn alongside things
you love to learn. Follow your heart, as well as your sense of duty. Do you remember the 8th grade
history that you hated so much, with all those names and dates that seemed to mean nothing? The
point was to bring you to learn details now that will knit chunks of information together later. It was a
chore then, but it makes sense, now.
Even when you're learning the things you have to, such as on-the-job knowledge, seek to go beyond
what you're being asked to learn. Look at the history, case studies, different applications, etc., to make
your learning experience much more well-rounded.
Learn the basics. It can be a grind at times, but you'll be able to remember, connect and figure out all
kinds of complicated things through relatively few, simple building blocks if you learn some math and
natural-science concepts.[2] You can look up precise formulas and trivia again later, but the concepts
will do the most good and save a lot of time in repeated look-ups if mostly learned by heart.[3] Try some
free OpenCourseWare, TED Talks or iTunes University for comprehensive presentations from famous
professors and experts in their fields.
Mix learning the basics with more fun learning, like intellectual hobbies and games. Don't space them
out so far that you forget what came before in a sequence; a half-class or class every day or two might
be a good pace. Check into DIY U for a list of colleges and institutions that offer low cost or free courses.
If you find complex math very unintuitive in isolation, you can look it up as you learn things that use it.
Without seeing the applications, it's hard to distinguish the concepts you need from the computational
tricks most people don't.
Read books by people who experienced difficulties with the basics of math, science or other subjects but
have still managed to find workarounds without giving up. Their ways of learning might help you to
improve your own.
Image titled 117971703_c4381b62fd
Read, read, read. Make friends with your local library and new and used book sellers. Reading is a portal
into other worlds and into the minds of your fellow human beings. Through reading you will never stop
learning and being amazed by the incredible creativity, intelligence and yes, even banality, of the human
species. Wise people read lots of books, all the time; it's as simple as that. And reading will help you to
learn the discoveries and mistakes of others who have gone before you; reading is, in effect, a shortcut
so that you don't have to learn things the hard way.
Read all sorts of books. Just because you're usually a mystery fan doesn't mean you shouldn't try
nonfiction now and then. Don't limit yourself.
Recognize the educational value in whatever you read. Nonfiction, of course, teaches about its subject.
Fiction, freed from that constraint, can teach more about good writing, storytelling, vocabulary, and
human nature generally. Indeed, fiction will tell you a great deal about the mores, morals, thinking and
habits of the time during which it was written, and it is also said that fiction readers are more
empathetic than those who avoid it because it teaches us about interacting in the social world.[4]
Newspapers, magazines, manuals, and comic books are all worth reading. As are websites, blogs,
reviews and other online sources of information.
Image titled Flyfish1 600
Broaden your definition of learning. Take a look at the Theory of Multiple Intelligences if you don't know
it yet. Consider how you might fit in, and where you can improve.
Refine your existing skills. Are you already good at fly fishing? Computers? Teaching? Playing
saxophone? Hone these skills and take them to the next level.
Try new things, both inside and outside your preferred skill areas.
Do things outside your vocation. As an adult, your experience may be your best teacher. Whether you
work for pay or volunteer your time, focus on a project or tinker with whatever grabs your attention, try
lots of things and notice the results. Apply the results to other things in your life, to expand the value of
what you've learned. You never know when an opportune discovery might arise as a result of your
observations and innovative approaches.
Image titled Pink Garden 2112
Create. Not all learning comes from outside you. In fact, some of the most powerful learning happens
when you are creating or formulating something for yourself. Creation, like intelligence, can be artistic
or scientific; physical or intellectual; social or solitary. Try different media and methods and refine the
ones you like the most.
Image titled Snail2 3326
Observe. Look more closely at your world, and examine both the usual and the unusual. Also, look at the
world from different levels. Chances are you already respond differently to the news of a friend than to
the news of a country, for example.
Respond to what you observe, and notice and examine your own response.
Be mindful; if you find that it's difficult to observe things for long enough, consider meditating. This will
help you to learn to see things you haven't noticed since you were a young child.
Image titled The_joy_of_teaching 2261
10
Take classes, both formal and informal. No matter how dedicated an autodidact you are, some subjects
are best learned with the aid of a teacher. Remember that a teacher may be found in a classroom, but
also in an office, a neighbor's garage, a store, a restaurant, or a taxicab. The teacher may also be a
mentor or a guide of some sort in your life, such as a life coach or counselor.
Several of the world's best universities provide videos and materials for their courses free over the
Internet as the "Open CourseWare" project[5]. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is an
exceptional contributor, with hundreds of courses.[6] You can also use iTunes University, which can be
viewed via your computer or your portable electronic devices.
11
Ask questions. Asking the right questions can be more important than having the answers. It can also
turn just about anybody into a teacher. Be sure to listen closely and understand the response.
Sometimes a response is difficult to understand. Feel free to take notes, ask more questions and to
break down the response into smaller components to try to make sense of it. Return to your preferred
learning style––if something is easier drawn in pictures, then draw it out to help make better sense of it.
Keep a journal or notebook to record what you learn and what questions you still have. Questions can
teach as much as, or more than, answers. A journal or notebook can also record your progress.
12
Evaluate and reflect on what you learn. Does it make sense? Is it true? Who said so? How was it
determined? Can it be verified? Is an argument or piece of advice logical, valuable, applicable?
Read How to develop critical thinking skills and How to improve critical thinking skills for more ideas on
ways to evaluate what you're learning.
13
Apply what you learn. This is the best way to test it and it will help you learn it more completely and
retain it longer. It will also help you to discover flaws and strengths in your learning, which is how we
progress the sum of human knowledge. Who knows what you may be about to discover, uncover or link
together?
14
Harness the power of play. Plenty of learning comes from the process of experimenting, tinkering, and
just being silly. Take time to mess around and try new things without pressure.
Image titled Luna 2757
15
Teach others. Teaching is a wonderful way to learn a subject better and improve your own
understanding of it. If you're not a teacher or tutor, you can write about your knowledge in a wiki,
where you and other contributors will know you can return to see something even better, or forum, or
simply volunteer an answer when somebody asks.
Joseph Joubert once said that "To teach is to learn twice." In teaching others how to learn things, you
will find that you learn even more than the students. Not only will you need to have a good grasp of
your materials, you will need to respond to the querying minds of your students and extend your
understanding beyond what you have considered it to be up to the point of each question asked of you.
experience.
Community Q&A
What is an autodidact?
wikiHow Contributor
An autodidact is a self-taught person. Self-teaching can be done through textbooks, internet research,
educational videos, and many other sources.
If I had to practice above facts, am I sure to be wise?
wikiHow Contributor
It doesn't necessarily guarantee that you'll be wise (wisdom is so much more than the desire or ability to
acquire knowledge), but you'll definitely learn new things.
How can you learn things beyond your grade level?
wikiHow Contributor
You can take university classes or join Honors or AP classes at your school. The internet is also a great
place to learn about things, so you can also search for information about the topics that interest you.
How can I get a scholarship to Harvard?
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Submit
Tips
Test yourself. Read college notes, take CLEP tests, challenge or audit college courses, etc.
Do what works best for you. Life isn't a dress rehearsal, so make the most of it.
Leave your perfectionism behind. Experiment, make mistakes, and ask silly questions. If you wait until
you know it all, you'll be waiting a long time.
Another good way to learn is to find people that are either learning the same things you are, or already
know them. Just being around those people and conversing with them will put you much farther ahead
compared to studying in isolation.
Sleep, exercise, and eat properly. Your overall health will influence how much you can effectively learn.
Have fun. Fun is a very important part of learning, especially as an adult. It is a big part of your
motivation to continue.
Keep an open mind. Some of the greatest scientific, mathematical, artistic, and other advances came
from questioning conventional wisdom and being open to unusual results and new, different ways of
doing things. And don't presume that because you're not an expert or that it's "not your area", that you
don't have a contribution. Learned, enthused and observant outsiders can often see connections, gaps
and new ways forward that those deeply embedded in their profession, expertise or trade miss.
Learn something for its own sake. Just because it's there. Explore freely. Learn trivia, and expand into
self-directed course learning.
Warnings
If you get good at learning and find that you know more than most people around you, be careful that
you don't turn into a know-it-all.
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Español: convertirte en un aprendiz de toda la vida, Русский: учиться всю жизнь, Português: se Tornar
um Aprendiz por Toda a Vida, 中文: 终身学习, Italiano: Continuare a Imparare per Tutta la Vita
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How to Know When You Need To Further Your Education
Whether you are looking for a specific job that requires specialty skills or you are looking to build upon
your current work skills, furthering your education will help you in your endeavor. But in a slow
economy, how do you know when your need to further your education so that your investment will pay
off? There are steps that you should take into account if you're considering going back to school to
further your education.
Steps
Image titled Come up With a Thesis Step 10
Opt to further your education if you feel that you can increase your salary by doing so. Those with
degrees can expect to earn higher salaries, and the level of the degree is a determining factor as to how
much. If you want to make more money, then you have to have something to offer in return. Check with
your company regarding reimbursement programs that may assist you in your ongoing education
efforts.
Image titled Ask Survey Questions Step 7
Evaluate your current profession, and determine whether you need a change. Maybe you are looking for
more of a challenge, or maybe you are not happy with the politics in your current work situation.
Whatever the reason, your need to continue your schooling may be a necessity, even if you are looking
for a similar position but at a different company. Company requirements may have evolved since you
last looked for a job, and positions that may not have required a degree, or certain qualifications, in the
past, may be asking for them now. Even the job that you are in today may have higher expectations
should you apply for the position today.
Become more marketable to future employers by furthering your education and enhancing your value.
By arming yourself with newer skills and making yourself more valuable, you are more likely to be
eligible for a promotion. If this is your intention, then opt to enhance your qualifications and gain more
knowledge so that you are the better choice when the time comes to promote within your company.
Save your job by building upon your existing knowledge and sharpening your current skills. In a fragile
economy, nobody's job is safe. If there are concerns at your company about lay offs, then you should
enhance your skills so that you are more of a valuable asset to your employers and less likely to lose
your position there. Even if your investment in such education does not save your current job, it should
make you more marketable in a job search.
Stay abreast of the latest and greatest in your industry. Your job may be ever evolving, as is technology,
and so you should always be ahead of the game. Understanding newer technology will set you apart
from your peers who may prefer to remain stagnant in their knowledge base.
experience.
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Motivate Adult Learners

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Study in One Day

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