U-Shaped Learning

There’s many a useful way to learn.

You often hear me advocate for what’s called T-shaped learning - broad learning across a range of areas, with deep dives into mastery for some.

Today, I practiced some U-shaped learning.

Half way through a task, I discovered an area I needed extra knowledge. Spending time at the bottom of the U, I read some articles, watched some video tutorials and practiced a few things. And, when I felt my knowledge and skills adequate to complete the task at hand, I came back to the top of the U and continued on.

We often think of learning as something to occur solely during discrete, formal activities. Instead, as curious, engaged, problem-solving humans, we’re learning and developing all the time.

I’m curious, when you reflect on how you work, what are some of the useful ways you learn and grow?

---