C7: Compartmentalized Learning
Remember back to when I explained the difference between technology and software? I said:
When talking about technologies, I am talking about broad categories of the technology around us. Since we are primarily dealing with software, I am talking about categories of software. Examples include page layout packages, web design packages, and presentation packages…When I say software, on the other hand, I am talking about a particular program such as Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, Photoshop, and the like. Think of technology as the category and software as the item within the category.
Because software within a technology, or category if you prefer, tends to have similarities, you may find it easier to learn a software when you know another software within the same category. For example, if you already know Gimp, you will probably find it easier to learn Photoshop since they are both pixel graphic software. If you know Scribus, you will find it easier to learn InDesign. Since they are both page layout software packages, they will have similarities.
Understanding the difference between technology and software and understanding the relationship between the two can be very helpful in learning a new software package quickly. All software within a technology will have similar functions. For instance, if you are dealing with a web design software, then there will be a way to create web links. If you are working on a page layout package, then there will be a way to create headers and footers. If you are working on a photo package, there will be a way to sharpen images. Every package within a technology will have somewhat similar capabilities.
Pattern Recognition
Once more, pattern recognition comes into play. If you have worked with another software within a technology, you are likely to see similarities between the two. Take a moment to look for such similarities. This action can help you learn the new software at a faster pace. What looks familiar? Do you see any features that were in that other software?
Pros and Cons
At the same time, knowing another software package within a technology can also be a bit frustrating. Each package has things it does well and things it does poorly. Each one has its own personality and its own quirks. You may find yourself frustrated because one does not have a function or because of how it handles a function. Unfortunately, we cannot take the best from all the packages; we must accept each one as it is.
Differences aside, look for similarities between software within a technology. You will find that this can help you learn new software more quickly.
Freeware Practice
Since adaptability training is compartmentalized, I encourage you to focus your adaptability practice on your career of interest. Do some research and find the most popular software in your field as well as any freeware or apps. For instance, if you want to be an accountant, see if you can access two or more accounting software packages. If you want to be an engineer, investigate computer-aided design software. And so forth. If you cannot afford the popular packages, see if you can access free software packages or apps in your field. Learning freeware may not be the ideal situation, but you will have some knowledge of common features found in software associated with the field. Come time to look for a job, even a bit of knowledge is better than no knowledge. And, you get to practice your adaptability skills in the process.
