I’m curious by nature, interested in nearly everything, and a continuous learning expert by experience. I always have two types of tasks on my desk: ones related to the professional development of staff and ones related to the coordination and development of onboarding in collaboration with others involved.
I consider my information technology, interaction, and organisation skills as my strong suits. In my work, I am increasingly fascinated by artificial intelligence, foresight, and – surprise, surprise – learning.
LUT University offers us an excellent opportunity to use part of our working hours for independent study. The only requirement is that I agree on it with my supervisor and the studies support my work community's needs and my professional duties. I can study the equivalent of two 45-minute lessons during working hours. Over the course of the year, that adds up to over 60 hours!
I can study the equivalent of two 45-minute lessons during my working hours. Over the course of the year, that adds up to over 60 hours!
Subscribe to our Curious People newsletter
Clean energy, water and air are life-giving resources for which we seek new solutions with our expertise in technology, business and social sciences. By subscribing to our newsletter, you stay up-to-date on our latest research and other interesting news.
Studies, training videos, podcasts and study programmes
During the four years I've worked at LUT, I have independently completed pedagogical studies. At the moment, I am in organisational learning coach training – out of my own free will and with the backing of my employer. For longer study programmes, I have also used my spare time.
In addition, I have watched training videos through the Eduhouse online service, listened to podcasts related to human resource development, and taken part in live training and distance training on different themes, such as impactful onboarding, AI as an HR tool, and competence management.
Keeping your skills up to date is part of maintaining your capacity for work. That is why studying during working hours is an investment in both yourself and your employer.
LUT provides an excellent learning environment in itself. It is rewarding to be able to develop my work and share my expertise with others. Learning something provides a joy of discovery that promotes overall well-being. Keeping your skills up to date is part of maintaining your capacity for work. That is why studying during working hours is an investment in both yourself and your employer.
What inspires and interests you?
According to ChatGPT, independent studies develop professional skills, foster personal growth, and promote career development. The AI tool also reminds us that learning requires commitment and flexibility but rewards us with new skills and opportunities. In addition, ChatGPT points out that independent studies encourage people to engage in lifelong learning and to stay competitive in the world of work.
“You can obtain new skills in big and small ways. The choice is yours.”
In my opinion, external pressure is a poor motivator for learning. Nevertheless, the fact of the matter is that at work you sometimes need to learn new things and unlearn old ones because change is permanent. We all need to accept that.
In contrast, take a minute to think about what inspires you. What are your most important skills and areas of interest? What skills could you strengthen, what interests you, and what new expertise could you benefit from at work?
You can obtain new skills in big and small ways. The choice is yours.
The original Finnish text was published in autumn 2023.
Writer:
