What Makes a Great Learner?
Whether you’re studying a tough subject, learning a new skill, or preparing for an important exam, you probably feel, at one time or another, that everything would be easier if only you were smarter. Yet, while traits like high working memory and processing speed may be significantly influenced by genetics, most qualities associated with high IQ individuals can be adopted by anyone. Here are seven of the most important ones: 1. INTELLECTUAL HUMILITY 2. CURIOSITY 3. COACHABILITY 4. PUNCTUALITY 5. RESPONSIVENESS 6. CRITICISM 7. PERSISTENCE INTELLECTUAL HUMILITY The journey to becoming smarter often begins and ends with the same realization: you’re not as smart as you think. Receptivity to learning admits that there is at least a little and probably a lot to learn. Once you resist the false confidence of the Dunning–Kruger Effect–that cognitive bias wherein the less people know, the less likely they are to recognize their ignorance…
Can You Accept Criticism?
Like it or not, none of us are born perfect. Even worse, very few of us achieve perfection in any area or task. But those of us who strive to do our best must develop a thick skin, because failure always precedes success. Unfortunately, failure doesn’t always sit well with a person. Neither does criticism, which can be a problem as constructive criticism is one of the essential drivers of incremental improvement. Can anyone really learn or accomplish anything of consequence without dealing with criticism? Research, not to mention experience and common sense, says no: Research has overwhelmingly supported that providing feedback is one of the most powerful influences on learning and an integral part of the teaching/learning process. Into each life, Longfellow assures us, some rain must fall. Sometimes we’re showered with criticism too. How we handle constructive criticism makes all the difference. Do you see yourself on this…