As to my notetaking style, it is fairly sparse. I go through the book with a highlighter my first time around, and if I need to really solidify the information I scan through a second time making notes.

-Scott

I’m myself student of University’s external program (University of London) which is my handy way to gain work experience while studying and does give a certain advantage comparing to those just graduated.

Just wanted to point out one thing about the “Structure” point. I think the lack of ‘structure’ can be viewed as a strong point of self-learning. It trains you to think more about what you’re doing, and why you’re learning, instead of just going through the motions. Yes, it’s riskier, and there’s more uncertainty, but the uncertainty provides good training for future.

Also, about networking and expertise, with today’s connected world, it’s a lot easier to get connected with others. I’ve had the likes of Seth Godin replied my emails, and been able to connect with people like Jeremiah Owyang. So yes, it might be slightly harder, but it’s still very much possible.

Just my 2 cents.

Derrick

The method I am trying out involves reading books, and using the little book note post-it stickers. I use red ones for action items, and then the other colors to refer to any reference items. I also write any notes on the page with the sticky note. Once I’ve read the book once, I go through it quickly and re-read each bookmarked page. If there is a red sticky note then I complete that recommended action. If there is another color then I will take notes on it in a word document named “Author – Book”. This provides me an easy way to access books I’ve read in the past. It also works well since I read many library books that obviously must be returned.

I am also a second year university student and have given much thought to this “formal education vs. self-education” argument. Obviously, I ended up choosing to pursue formal education (at an art school). However, I supplement my art education with things I teach myself. For example, I decided to drop my Graphic Design minor because I felt that I could teach myself, but I’m more weak in my storytelling and business skills, so I had to take the formal route with my major, Illustration. Among other things, I am also teaching myself Mandarin Chinese and adding to my high school level French.

Oh, another benefit of formal education is location/travel. Going to school in a different place is nice because living on-campus sort of eases you into living in a new environment. Traveling abroad longterm is also a bit easier in this sense.

I would add mobility as a big value/strength of self education. You need school [the building, geographically one single specific location].

Happy and productive self study in 2008 !!

In my about page, I tell visitors straight away about my stand that there is but little correlation between academic achievements and personal/financial success.

The formal education system can only offer so much… it misses out on crucial elements such as life skills.. which you are more likely to pick up through self-education. In fact, like you, I learnt psychology and a lot of other fascinating subjects outside school.

Is School really that bad?

Well, not really. I believe formal education still have a lot to offer, for example instilling discipline. I’m not advocating for people to just quit school and then try and figure out what to do.

You should… no… you MUST supplement formal education with self-education… in areas that schools are not likely to provide you with a good grounding.

Real education does not begin and end in school. Real education starts when you graduate…

Happy New Year,
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Personal Development for The Book Smart