Nov 24

"Best way to learn?" (What's the best way to learn new things, etc)

Things to consider

• "Best" is comparing (superlative) so you can talk about various possibilities, should discuss facts if possible, and show why you think so (critical thinking skills)
• Way - could talk about "what is a way" but this is probably the least impotant part of this question
• what is "learning" - is it different from memorizing, studying, practicing, etc? does this matter? Does it matter what we learn?
• Who are you talking about? NOT ONLY YOU! so you might want to talk about different ways for different people
• Implications of the question - does Your learning style suggest your character, or, do you try to make one answer fit everyone? Do you show flexibility?

Consider an answer like:

• Different people have different "best ways to learn." In the 21st century, things change so fast, that no one can afford to not be a good learner, so everyone needs to work through their strengths. It doesn't make sense to force people to learn in ways that don't work for them -- some people enjoy learning through a class, others want to read a training book, and others may just want to "pick it up and try." Me, I like to "play" with it, let me try with my intuition and a reference book to help me, first. When we are rewarded for successful learning, we will have a better attitude and should be more successful.

Be positive. Stick to the question. It is sometimes helpful to repeat, or paraphrase, the question in your answer. (It "wastes" 5 seconds, some people think, but shows the interviewer that you have heard the question, and can help you to stay on topic.)

Possible answers (see picture below, match colored lines to colored numbers, to explanation here)

1. the wrong way (start from "not the question" and end with "a strange answer"
2. Start is directly from the question, gets a little broad, ends with focus on the main concept ... this is not a bad way!
3. from broad to narrow. a general idea, going to a specific recommendation
4. from narrow to broad, start with a specific element of the question, go to a broad recommendation
5. a predictable and safe answer - from the exact question to a careful answer.

Numbers 2-5 are fine. Number 1 is a mistake, but it can happen when you are nervous or don't understand the question!

INTERVIEW QUESTION TO PREPARE for next meeting --

"If you could change 1 thing?" (one thing in your life)

(Don't be negative, don't talk about terrible things, but something you can adjust and are doing something about to make your life better. for example, did you choose the wrong major in school?)