c. Army Instruction. Most Army instruction is structured. This will sometimes
rankle a student who learns better using a more autonomous method. Any formal
classroom where the instructor lectures or prescribes the amount to be learned and the
time for learning is considered structured. Correspondence courses and training
extension course (TEC) lessons are considered autonomous because the student
determines the speed of learning (within limits), and he can look up supplementary
materials. This kind of conflict can be resolved if the student determines ahead of time
that the course (or lesson) is so important to his personal or professional development
that he will do whatever is required to master the material.
2-13. REASONS TO LEARN
Motivation is fully as important to the student as it is to the instructor. Real
learning takes place only when the learner feels a compelling need to know the
material. For a very few people, the desire to be of service is enough. Generally, there
must be more than that.
a. Medical Personnel Need. Medical personnel feel some need to be of
service when they select their MOS. The desire to advance and/or to excel in their field
can impel many soldiers toward additional training. Along with this is a need to make
others proud. When mom and dad or the spouse and children feel pride, this
contributes toward the happiness of the service member.
b. Advancement. Advancement also brings material rewards, such as money
and promotion to a higher rank. Whatever the motivation, it must be felt enough to bring
about a strong, positive attitude toward learning the presented material.
2-14. PERSONAL ADJUSTMENTS
Some people are so flexible that they can tackle the job of intensive study with
very little personal adjustment. Most of us must adjust or change some parts of our
personal life to accommodate this new activity. Areas that might require some
adjustment are:
a. Physical. Effective study requires enough rest for clear thinking. The
student needs exercise. Prolonged study in one position will eventually cause the body
to rebel, by causing cramps and various aches and pains. Maintain a good diet. This
means a balanced diet, without excessive dependence on snack foods. Keep yourself
and your study area clean. A cluttered, dirty work area does not invite study (neither do
smelly clothing and dirty hands).
b. Time. Be realistic in your attitude toward time. Setting unrealistic schedules
for yourself will accomplish little and encourage disappointment. Yesterday is gone. It
makes no sense to bemoan lost opportunities. Today is now, and the future is yet to
come. These are the times that need your attention. Life continues; it does not go
backward.
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