Learning 2.0. A Freelancer’s Guide
“With this degree… to do all that appertains to it… blah blah blah”
These are words that are said to graduands every year from our universities. Well, my power to do all that appertains to what I studied is not closely or remotely related to working with words for a living. With a recent post comparing talent against skill in freelancing, the common denominator I have found in these two is education or improving oneself and/or skills through continuous learning. Learning in the new world order has greatly changed how we acquire knowledge and/or dispense it.
Ebooks
Yes, these have become a source for those who want to learn. Ebooks in every conceivable topic have been written by amateurs and industry experts. There are thousands upon thousands of ebooks offered either for free or at a fee. Whether a free ebook or premium one, one written by well-known experts can add knowledge, skills and insight into your already pool of knowledge.
If you aspire to own a writing business, this is a good read.
Online Tutorials
Unlike a traditional classroom, online courses offer one the flexibility of acquiring the much needed skills at their own paced time. One can acquire a degree, diploma or certificate without setting their foot in a classroom. Apart from cutting cost of acquiring the much needed knowledge, one gains skills from the available vast online resource. Just like the ebooks, online courses are either free or come at a fee However, before joining an online course, there are certain steps needed;
- One needs to check their time difference especially if the tutor and students are on the opposite ends of the earth to find the most appropriate time slot for both parties.
- If the end goal is to acquire certifications, one needs to ensure through research that their time and money will not go down the drain because of bogus courses.
- One needs to ensure that their internet is fast and up-to-speed. Why is this important? Well, you don’t want your link to go dead when the tutor is explaining a key point or demonstrating something.
This site offers tutorials in a variety of subjects. Worth every penny Lynda.com
If your interest lies in working with words, then Mediabistro is the place to be.
Podcasts
These are videos or audio clips that are created by individuals anddistributed online. In the recent past well known entrepreneurs, gurus, companies, brands and individuals have joined the beeline to podcasting. If this is your chosen route, ensure your podcaster will not dry up on you mid-way. Also, chose a podcaster who is well known and doesn’t offer personal opinions but rather an objective session.
There you have it; simple steps for anyone to learn and improve their skills. How do you acquire knowledge or skills?
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