What’s your favourite gadget or piece of technology?

This is like asking Danielle “What’s your favorite form of exercise?” (She doesn’t exercise, really.) Or asking Dan “What’s your favorite filing system?” (You should see his desk.) IT isn’t an area that comes gracefully to me, but I am proud of how far I have come. Technology is a new language and what has helped is knowing how I learn a new language. There are three basic learning styles: audio, visual, kinesthetic.

My steep learning curve with technology has included deep breathing and patience. Patience has come from knowing how I learn, kinesthetically, not comparing myself to Danielle and Dan, and using the help feature. Embracing how I learn supports me in doing a better job. Sitting for 10 hours (which I do regularly) kills my butt and my spirit. I need to move around, connect with others, hunt and gather. To get the most from technology I stay aware of my needs: a camera for inspiration and beauty, a dictaphone for ideas and my Mac to communicate my ideas. No Blackberry necessary. No top of the line product for me; ease, confidence and an occasional whisper to Danielle, “How the hell do I…???” is all I need.

Kinesthetic Learning:
Need hands-on/active learning (touch and movement).
Don’t require instructions to assemble something.
Can have difficulties if have to remain seated for a long period of time.
May be athletic. Try moving while you read.
Take advantage of assignments that allow you to do hands-on work.
Use flashcards that you can move on a table or other surface. Read aloud.
Write information out (on paper, board, etc.) when studying.
Use colour coding & diagrams
Listen to course information on tape while you move (or recite to yourself).
Take frequent breaks when working and move/stretch.
Try studying in a position other than a chair in front of a desk.

Knowing how I learn is a powerful guide in my life, it creates clarity and acceptance. How do you learn?