As children we start learning at home, and then at school.  Parents, family, teachers, friends and society are the major sources of learning in early life. They also guide and to some extent control what we learn. We learn a lot from our peers too, and this carries on for life.

As we reach adulthood, we become responsible for learning lifelong. This must be carried on throughout our lives. and is mostly self-directed. We choose what we learn, and how we do it.

Making a conscious effort and plan for Lifelong Learning pays much higher dividends than learning driven by subconscious random efforts.

Here is a list of 12 ways to pursue lifelong learning, there can be some more:

1. Classes or courses at universities: This is the traditional method of learning. The advantage of pursuing courses at universities and educational institutions is that you learn along with a peer group. There is a well-defined syllabus and experienced faculty. All these help in better learning as well as in motivation to continue and complete the course. You get a degree, certificate or credits for courses completed. The disadvantage or the shortcoming in this method is that it involves comparatively higher fees and other expenses relating to attending the classes. You also need to attend classes as per a schedule, submit assignments and take tests and examinations.
2. Community courses: Community courses are generally cheaper than university courses. They have many options related to vocational learning which may not be available at universities. These courses can be taken part-time in evenings or on weekends and so you can learn while you work full time. They have advantages similar to university courses, and same limitations too.
3. MOOC (Massive Online Learning Courses): These are now available from many universities and through learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy etc. They normally cost less than courses with physical attendance at universities, community colleges etc. Courses also include tests and certifications based on the results. Some of these courses are accepted for credits in regular courses or degrees. Many free courses are also available.
4. Search engines: in the present times, “Googling” is the easiest way of learning. It can result in overload of information, repetition and sometimes misinformation. But the results are immediate. You can use the learning from the results instantaneously. The same applies to video sources like YouTube., TikTok. etc. There are a numbers of search engines like Google., Bing  etc.
5. AI Tools: ChatGPT is one of the latest tools. It helps you get a specific answer to a question through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Results are almost instantaneous. There are a number of such tools available now. They use machine learning and derive answers using data which has been collected earlier. These tools are new and need to be used with caution and care. Results can be misleading, biased or outdated at times.
6. Websites: Websites contain a lot of detail and most of these are regularly updated. They can be a good source of information.  You can look for websites that provide information of your interest and browse through them.
7. Blogs and Podcasts: Blogs and podcasts are available on almost any subject these days. These too have latest additions and are sometimes interactive. You can give feedback, clarify your doubts or get additional information. Most blogs and are also available in audio versions. Therefore, one can listen to blogs too while driving or doing physical work or activity.
8. Libraries: Libraries are storehouses of information.  These days many libraries are available online which makes it very convenient to access information that you need from anywhere. Search is easier on online libraries. Learning groups
9. eBooks: A plethora of eBooks is now available on every subject. Many of these books are small and can be read in a short duration. A large number of eBooks are available free. eBooks are a very good source of learning.
10. Seminars, workshops, conferences and lectures: Conventionally, seminars, workshops and conferences have been a good opportunity to hear from eminent people in the related fields about the latest developments.  Many conferences have exhibitions attached to them and a significant amount of learning can be there from the exhibitions. Stalls in exhibitions have staff in attendance who explain  the offerings and provide clarifications if you need.
11. Social media: Social media has become one of the most used ways of knowing and learning new things.  What is important is to confirm the veracity of the information and the authenticity of the source. A lot of false information is also getting circulated on social media and you have to be vary of this.
12. Learning groups: Group study was common amongst schoolchildren till a few years back. The same can be done by adults with common interests in learning. Shared knowledge is a significant benefit in group study. Groups also create peer pressure to keep pace and help inculcate regularity and discipline in studies. (Picture from Unsplash)