Meeting my learning needs can tend to be a complex process. I usually like to sit down and review hard copies of all available information on the topic I am researching, then develop a theme. From that theme, I then ask people questions and their insight on the topic. This is where it gets hairy. Sometimes, there may not be anyone to answer my questions, then I feel slightly insecure, but I pick myself back up by re-reading the hard copies of information. Yet, to be a continuing learner, a person must break away from stereotypes and influences of other people, and begin to dig deep within to discipline themselves to initiate learning. Once you have the desire to learn and have a clear idea about what you are learning, then others opinions on topics tend to be only their opinions. Of course, we may like their thoughts and may add them to our thoughts, but if we are true learners, we tend to stick with our own ideas no matter what.

I feel it is important to stay on top of your field, no matter what it is, in the ways of information and new resources. If I only take what I learn at Marshall University and never reach beyond that pool of information to engage in new resources, then my practice will go to a point, plateau and, in the long run, sink. That is why our field is full of continuing education opportunities because life changes, people change.

Therefore, I would venture to say tha in order to meet my learning needs I have to realize that a need exists, which anyone with a sound mind should have a need to continually learn. Once the realization occurs to me, then I am ready to begin my search to find out everything possible on my topic. From a professional standpoint, I would assume that clinicians feel overwhelmed by their work plus continuing education, but in the end feel good about themselves knowing that because of that education, the quality of life for another individual will improve.