Learning to Learn

This is my fifth semester as a technical communications graduate student. Every semester I feel confident in my skills as a technical communicator because I learn a new hands-on industry skill. Then along comes a new semester and I realize I need to acquire another skill to be a better communicator. But that is what learning is, right?

As students we are not expected to have all the knowledge. That’s why we are students and not teachers. Even subject matter experts start somewhere before they become experts at what they do.

So, what am I lacking this semester and what can I do to fill the gaps in my learning?

Well, taking a baseline survey was a good start. It showed me the gaps in my knowledge:

1. HTML

2. CSS

3. DITA

4. Madcap Flare

5. Camtasia

How do I gain knowledge in these programs and languages? Or at the very least gain a level of familiarity with them?

Before I answer this, I need to talk about my focus area: technical writing. To be a good technical writer, I need to be proficient in MS Word as well as have a working knowledge of single source authoring tools like Madcap Flare.

I am proficient in MS Word and have a LinkedIn Learning certificate in it. However, I heard of Madcap Flare and Camtasia for the first time when I signed up for my Digital Literacies course. I knew of HTML and CSS but never learnt the language or was interested in learning it till I realized they were essential tools in a technical communicator’s tool belt.

What is my plan to improve in these areas?

Seek Help from Online Sources and SMEs: On the baseline survey my ‘Help Seeking’ score was 4.5, higher than the class average of 3.5, and listed sources and people as my tools for seeking help.

LinkedIn Learning is an excellent online source to gain knowledge and certifications. I discovered Lynda as a resource in the Spring of 2022 and since then I’ve tried to learn new skills on it every chance I get. Currently, I am taking InDesign Essential Training, HTML, and CSS courses. I plan to finish these courses in the next few weeks. Of course, I’ve realized that I need to go back to parts of these courses from time to time to refresh my knowledge or to understand a concept I’ve forgotten.

I have never shied to talk to people smarter and more knowledgeable than me. I recognize subject matter experts (SME) are called that because they are experts in what they do. While my instructors are good sources to learn from, they do not have the time to help me out every single time I am stuck on a problem. On the other hand, I have colleagues and peers who are knowledgeable in areas where I am lacking. For example, a friend and peer of mine is good at designing documents. I regularly schedule zoom meetings with her to talk about InDesign and ask her guidance on any issues I am having.

I also ask for help from people more knowledgeable than me. For example, I was not sure of downloading Madcap Flare on my own and our instructional lab supervisor guided me through the whole install in his lab on campus.