To learn a new topic it’s been helpful to create my own “college class” by making a self-curated syllabus and then completing it.
The process is something like: (1) Pick a subject I want to learn more about, (2) do cursory research (like an hour or two) on what textbooks/books/videos/essays are out there, (3) structure that content into a “syllabus”, (4) ask a friend/expert for feedback on the plan, (5) revise then do it (with flexibility).
I’ve found it helpful because DIY syllabi:
- Are significantly easier with LLMs to create/structure/actually learn
- Promotes active, intentional, and efficient content consumption
- Helps create lots of shareable output
- Can flex as you go
- Reveals what you’re actually interested in
- Could add up to meaningful lifelong learning
I think learning this way could be a good ”keystone habit.” At 3 to 5 hr of focused work per week, I should always be able to do this even in busier seasons. I could learn a lot doing 4 DIY courses per year for 40 years!