In today's fast-paced world, it's not just about what you learn, but how you learn it. Traditional classrooms and training sessions still have their place, but what if I told you that most of our learning doesn't happen there? Enter the 70-20-10 model, a game-changer in the realm of learning and development. As someone who was once in the dark about this approach, my discovery of the 70-20-10 model was an enlightening revelation. Let's dive in!
Understanding the Numbers
Before we delve into its intricacies, let's decode what 70-20-10 stands for:
Experience (70%): The Power of Doing
Picture this: When did you last learn something new? Was it by reading about it, or by actually doing it? Our brains are wired to learn best from experiences. This hands-on, trial-and-error approach allows us to internalize lessons deeply. Experience is the silent teacher that provides real-time feedback, ensuring we adapt and enhance our skills effectively.
Exposure (20%): Learning from the World Around Us
Have you ever had an enlightening coffee conversation with a colleague? Or perhaps a moment of clarity during a mentorship session? That's the 20% at play. Exposure means absorbing lessons from our surroundings, peers, and leaders. It emphasizes the importance of networking, observing, and collaborating. While it's subtle, this component is instrumental in providing context and real-world relevance to our learning journey.
Education (10%): The Traditional Cornerstone
Don't be mistaken by the small percentage; formal education still plays a pivotal role. Structured courses, workshops, and seminars offer foundational knowledge on which our experiences and exposures can build. The beauty of the 70-20-10 model is that it doesn't discount formal education but rather integrates it into a broader, more holistic learning ecosystem.
My Personal Dive into 70-20-10
When I first came across the 70-20-10 model, it was an alien concept. But as I delved deeper, its logic resonated with my own learning experiences. I realized that while I had valued formal education, most of my significant lessons came from hands-on experiences and insightful interactions. Recognizing this has reshaped how I approach learning and development, both for myself and when guiding others.
Now, it's my turn to adapt and share this approach within omniIT. We're in a unique position as a company. We understand the value of training but also recognize its rising costs. The 70-20-10 model provides an excellent framework to foster a culture of continuous learning. Why invest heavily in external courses when we have a wealth of knowledge internally? Imagine the impact of internal training sessions where colleagues share their experiences, challenges, and insights. Not only is it cost-effective, but it's also deeply enriching, turning every team member into both a learner and a teacher.
The Takeaway
The 70-20-10 way isn't just a model; it's a mindset. It emphasizes the importance of experience and exposure in our development journey. This blended approach can make waves in our learning culture, benefiting both our team and our bottom line. After all, the best investment we can make is in our people.