4 Benefits of Continuing Education

“The growth for education and training will be in continuing adult education. Online delivery is the trigger for this growth, but the demand for lifetime education stems from profound changes in society. We live in an economy where knowledge, not buildings and machinery, is the chief resource and where knowledge-workers make up the biggest part of the workforce.” – Peter Drucker, consultant, educator and author

Continuing education is a never-ending process. Consider it a revolving door. Every time you go around, there’s an opportunity to learn something new. More importantly, continuing education is not a stodgy, one-size fits all process. Your development comes in many forms – classes, webinars, selected readings, virtual summits.

The beauty with learning in today’s environment is that you can decide how and when you learn. As a firm believer in continuing education, I’ve identified four benefits to keep you inspired on your journey:

Keeps You Current

Changes can be hard to process, especially if the change seems drastic. When you stay informed through continuing education, updates to theories or practices are more manageable to absorb. Additionally, you stand out from everyone else when you stay abreast of the latest developments.

Advances Your Career

You might be perfectly happy in your current position, and that’s okay. However, down the road, you may want the option to progress your career to the next level. Continuing education keeps your skills sharp, which makes you marketable and ready for your next career move.

Improves Job Performance

While you are in a constant state of learning, you begin to realize how your new found knowledge helps with productivity. This is when the application of your continuing education comes in to play. Moreover, the more you learn and the more you are able to apply what you learned, the more successful you will be.

Leads to Innovation

When you are involved in continuing education, not only do you learn more but you expose yourself to new ideologies. This opens the door to innovation or creativity. That is to say, let your educational environment be your muse.

In summary, life is always evolving. Let your education evolve too. What’s the last continuing education activity you completed?

Kandace Foreman is part of the GovLoop Featured Contributor program, where we feature articles by government voices from all across the country (and world!). To see more Featured Contributor posts, click here.

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Nya Jackson

Great post Kandace! As working professionals it can be difficult to set aside time for professional development but it’s important especially when you’re able to apply it to your current role and improve.

Megan Manfredi

So beneficial! I always say, “if you’re not learning, you’re not growing.” It’s so important to take advantage of any learning opportunities that come your way. I make a point to seek out ways to learn something as soon as I get a mild interest in it.