Learning how to use new technologies can seem daunting. It may appear that everyone else already knows what they are doing and it is easy to forget that there are others just like you who are new comers to what ever it is that you need to learn. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of learning how to use new technology in an environment that leaves little time to catch up.
Step 1. Look at WHY you are learning how to use this new technology.
Is it for school, work, fun, etc. If you don’t know why you are doing something then it is hard to motivate yourself to learn. Knowing why also helps you determine if you want to learn something new. Now if this new technology is required for school or work, whether or not you want to learn it is a little out of your hands but knowing that in the end having this skill will aid you in doing better at school or work could be enough to WANT to do it.
Step 2. Take small steps.
Diving directly into something new can you leave you feeling overwhelmed and defeated. Take small steps.
Read about the new technology before you try it out. This could be a post from a friend, a professional article, etc. You could also watch “How To” videos to see step by step instructions on navigating through the new technology before actually trying it out yourself. Even skim through the new technology, whether that be looking through the manual it came with or skimming over the website you downloaded it from.
Once you’ve researched your new technology and have learned as much as you could about it, its time to dive in.
Below is a video I found by simply googling ‘how to learn a new skill’.
Step 3. Take Action.
It is time to try it out for yourself. Download your new software, app, game, or whatever it is that you are learning, and try it for yourself. If you stumble across an issue or something you do not understand, look and see if whatever you are using has an FAQ page or google a question regarding your issue or simply post on social media and see if one of your peers can help. If you get frustrated it is important not to give up.
Step 4. Practice.
You’ve been told your whole life but it is true, practice makes perfect. The more you use this new technology the better you will know HOW to use it. Once you’ve mastered it, you could become one of the people who helps others learn how to use it.
Step 5. Be a master.
Master what you can and continue learning.
An overall concept to remember is to “Remind Yourself”. Step one is an important concept to keep with you through the entire learning process. Remind yourself WHY you are taking the time to learn this new technology and develop this new skill. If you don’t know WHY you are doing something then giving up quickly becomes a very easy task.
Here is a website I used to help me find steps on how to use new technology.