This informal CPD article, ‘How are we living in a world of continuous learning without even realising?’, was provided by iAM Learning, who are transforming the way your workforce trains and retains, using high-end animation, lovable characters and captivating stories to make even the most serious subjects appealing and unforgettable.
You’re learning right now. The thing is, you already know this – you’ve made the decision to click on this article and potentially learn something you didn’t know (or fully appreciate before). This is formal learning. But you’re always learning – whether you realise it or not. Your everyday life exposes you to new information and experiences that shape your knowledge, perspectives, and skills. Even routine activities can offer opportunities for you to pick up new things.
Education doesn’t have to come from your workplace's learning & development team (although being part of a learning culture does really help). Continual learning is crucial, and the best bit is – we’re exposed to it every day! Let’s take a peek at some of the places you’re learning without realising.
Social Media
Platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram allow you to connect with people worldwide. Through viewing posts and comments, you gain insights into different cultures, opinions and lifestyles. Social media expands your worldview by exposing you to new ideas and perspectives. Even just passively scrolling can teach you things. LinkedIn is a key place for learning too – but you probably expect to learn through it, more than other social media.
Customer Forums
Reading reviews and questions on forums like Amazon or TripAdvisor gives you a glimpse into the experiences of others. You’ll learn about which products work well or what to expect from a hotel stay or tour. Customer forums expose you to diverse views and let you learn from those conversations.
Radio
It’s not just for cheesy 80s hits, you know. Listening to talk radio, news broadcasts or even music radio stations educate you through interviews, stories, and songs. Radio hosts and DJs often share facts, current events, trivia, and opinions. Even background listening while driving or working can spark new thoughts and knowledge.
Online Articles & News
Articles like this one, videos and news clips on your social feeds and search results introduce new concepts, trends and discoveries. Online content covering diverse topics shapes your general knowledge. Staying updated becomes learning, even if you don't mean to actively study a subject.
The common thread is that you’re constantly absorbing information through everyday digital activities. Whether it's social, entertainment or informational sources, your modern media landscape surrounds you with learning opportunities that are merely disguised as routine parts of life. Subconsciously, you’ll integrate new ideas, perspectives, and skills over time through indirect exposure.
Understanding this helps you recognise and maximise everyday learning moments. With an open and curious mindset, you can find lessons and takeaways in unlikely places. You begin to view everyday activities as chances to learn and grow. Building this habit keeps your mind active and flexible, enhancing your ability to continuously evolve and adapt. Understanding the importance of a continuous learning culture produces benefits for your career, relationship, and life.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from iAM Learning, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
