F.A.S.T. Learning Method for Developers: Unlearn to Learn (Part 1)
Tags: career, learning, discuss, ai
Published: 2024-06-10 11:32:22

Hey everyone, 
I’m Raymond Hieu Tran, a software developer from Melbourne, Australia. Down here, we love our flat whites, AFL, and… well, let's be honest, complaining about the weather (latest JavaScript framework.)

But lately, there's been a new buzzword in town: AI. And it's got us developers sweating a bit.

Let's face it, when it comes to learning new tech, we're basically in an arms race with supercomputers that never sleep.
So, how do we humans keep up?  How can we enhance our learning and make it more efficient?

Well, I've been on a mission to find out. Recently, I stumbled across a method that's been blowing my mind – and no, it doesn't involve neural implants (yet).
It's called F.A.S.T Learning, and today, we're diving deep into the "F" – **Forget.**

Forget? But Isn't Learning About Remembering Stuff?
I know, I know. It sounds counterintuitive. But trust me on this one.  Sometimes, to truly learn something new, we need to clear out the cobwebs first.

## So what to "Forget" for Faster Learning?
### 1. The Non-Urgent Situational Stuff
Picture this: You're in a conference room, listening to a tech talk about the latest cloud computing trends. The speaker is practically bursting with knowledge, but your brain is busy planning tonight's dinner menu and strategizing your next move in your favorite online game.
Sound familiar? Don't worry, you're not alone. We've all been there.
The problem isn't your memory, it's your attention. To truly learn, we need to be present in the moment and give our full focus to the task at hand. So, ditch the mental distractions and tune in. Your brain will thank you for it.

### 2. Your Preconceived Notions (Yes, Even the "Expert" Ones)
Ever heard the saying, "A cup that is full cannot be filled"? The same goes for our brains. If we cling too tightly to our existing knowledge and assumptions, we leave no room for new information to take root.
I learned this the hard way recently while taking a course. I walked in thinking, "Psh, I've got this. I know the basics." Big mistake. My overconfidence made me tune out, and I ended up missing out on valuable insights.
The takeaway? Approach every learning opportunity with a beginner's mind, even if you think you're a seasoned pro. You might be surprised by what you discover.

### 3. Your Self-Imposed Limitations
We've all been there. You stumble across a complex concept, and that little voice in your head whispers, "This is too advanced. You'll never get it."

Don't listen to that voice! It's full of lies.

Instead, adopt a "growth mindset." Believe that you can learn anything you set your mind to, even if it takes time and effort.

Here's how to tackle those seemingly insurmountable learning challenges:
• Break it down: Complex topics are often just a collection of simpler concepts woven together. Deconstruct the information into bite-sized chunks and tackle them one at a time.
• Embrace the power of "yet": Instead of saying, "I can't do this," try, "I can't do this yet." That simple shift in perspective can make all the difference.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help: We're not meant to go through this learning journey alone. Reach out to mentors, peers, or online communities for guidance and support.
• Practice, practice, practice: The more you apply new knowledge, the more deeply it will be ingrained in your brain. So, get your hands dirty, build projects, and experiment!

Remember, the only limits to your learning are the ones you set for yourself.

## Conclusion
This is just the tip of the iceberg, my friends. Stay tuned for the next installment of the F.A.S.T. Learning series, where we'll uncover the secrets behind the "A" – Active Learning.
Until then, happy coding (and forgetting)!