To help create a bridge between generic truths and your own experience, describe a work situation that you are presently facing, have just dealt with, or that is looming on your horizon. Jot down the key issues that are at the core of the situation. Also, jot down some questions you have about the situation. By noting the key issues and questions of a specific situation, you have created a context that you can use to bridge the gap between good generic information and real life . As you find information in your self-study program that relates to your example, check off the issue or question you identified.
Time is always a factor in self-directed learning.
Most people have limited amounts of time to read books, view videos, or work through computer-based training. However, you can generally pull out the key concepts and important data in self-directed learning materials by scanning the information. Once you have scanned the information, you can return to sections of the material that seem particularly significant and spend time reviewing the information in detail. Read book jackets. Scan chapters for Titles, Boxed information, and Bold or highlighted words.