Learning Journey

A process with a range of experiences which arise from a starting point, such as an initial enquiry into what might be a suitable learning activity, through to a defined end point or outcome, which may then form the start of another learning journey.

A learning journey process will typically begin with an individual asking themself, ‘Where do I start?’, or by making an enquiry with a training advisor or line manager, or by being recommended by someone to consider a particular learning activity or by being signposted to a broad subject area for further investigation. This first stage acts as a catalyst for further consideration and can inspire an individual to explore different avenues for what might be their next learning activity.

Once a general area or activity has been identified as being of interest, or following an initial assessment or discussion of needs, an individual would confirm their aim and plan how this is to be achieved. If they are a student enrolled with a training organisation, they might have a detailed learning plan devised. This is typically called an Individual Learning Plan and would be based on their individual needs following a diagnostic assessment to achieve the desired learning outcome.

A learning journey can range from short to long term and can cover anything at all, but the purpose of it is that an individual will learn something from the experience.

For learning journeys which involve studying for a qualification there will typically be subject matter material to view, reflect on and understand, interaction and feedback from a teacher / tutor / guide / supervisor / facilitator, or similar, formative assessments to monitor progress made against the learning plan and summative assessment to measure success against the desired outcome/s, which might be a modular approach to learning with summative assessment taking place upon completion of each module or a single summative assessment at the end of a learning journey. This last stage is needed to confirm to a learner when they have reached their destination.

A learning journey should ideally be appropriate for the needs of the learner, considered and planned in advance, motivating, enjoyable, rewarding and produce positive experiences.