Do you want to learn something new but don’t have time between tight schedules and a full inbox? Here are a few ways to learn on the go!
Mobile Apps
Min. time: 1 minute
Apps dedicated primarily to mobile are usually designed for a short attention span.
You can use it while commuting to work and during work breaks. There are at least a few easy and fun apps to use, and it won’t take much time.
Language Learning – DuoLingo
Duolingo is a language-learning app that is also available as a website. You can use it for free, but it has ads or buy a premium (premium features allow you to use the app offline and get rid of the ads).
The English Speaking Service has the biggest offer when you’re learning in English, and in general, offers over 100 total courses across 41 distinct languages.
But if you don’t feel comfortable enough to learn as an English speaker, you will also find courses in other languages—for example, English for Polish speakers. Lessons have the form of short games, and you can do them one at a time.
So are you ready to join 500 million users and level up your language game?
Download DuoLingo:
Code Learning – SoloLearn
Learning how to code on the go? If this idea sounds crazy to you should try SoloLearn App. This app allows you to learn to code as you go. Courses contain questions about the theory of coding, commands, and so on. You can also take part in challenges.
Ready to start your coding experience?
Download SoloLearn:
Podcasts
Min. time: 5 minutes
This way of learning is not as demanding as the active usage of a mobile app. You can listen to educational, inspiring podcasts not only while you’re commuting but also actively driving. It’s so accessible that nearly everyone can use this.
You can listen to podcasts through:
- Spotify
- Podcast App on iOS devices
- Google Play
or some other podcast app of your choice.
You can find a podcast about almost every topic that you have an interest in. Personally, I mostly listen to language learning podcasts and some that are connected to self-development.
Here are some podcasts I recommend:
- Simplify–”Interviews with bestselling writers, productivity wizards, sex geniuses, and happiness experts to find it for you.”
- The Minimalists—”Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus discuss living a meaningful life with less. The Minimalists Podcast is often the #1 Health podcast on Apple Podcasts, and it occasionally charts in the Top 10 of all shows. “
- TED Daily Talks – TED Talks on the go? Every weekday, this feed brings you our latest talks in audio format. Hear thought-provoking ideas on every subject imaginable — from Artificial Intelligence to Zoology, and everything in between — given by the world’s leading thinkers and doers.”
Books Or E-Books
Min. time: 5 minutes
In the meantime, this is a pretty old-fashioned way to learn. The key to making use of books during short spans of attention is short chapters of text. Once again, you can read a book written in a simplified language or – for example – solve some puzzles.
I recommend using e-book readers because you can find many free materials that you can transfer to it and read in the meantime, for example, from Project Gutenberg.
Ever since I bought my Amazon Kindle Reader, I consider it one of the best electronic gadgets I’ve ever owned. I strongly recommend equipping yourself with an e-book reader—of course, if you like to read. I guarantee that even the busiest person will find a minute to read something with it—and having it in your bag will certainly make it easier.
Online Courses
Min. time: 5 minutes
Online courses are one of the main topics on this site. Many online services have mobile apps that allow you to use them in even the most unconventional situations. I still remember doing my UX course on Udemy for one hour after getting stuck in the toilet. And I can’t deny it – maybe it wasn’t the most fun experience of my life, but definitely something to remember!
» The course itself is definitely something worth checking!
Most online courses are divided into smaller lessons, which you can take during an office break or commuting work. Check services where you can take an online course:
Remember that in all those services you can find some free stuff.
Flashcards
Min. time: 10 minutes
Last but not least, just manual flashcards of something you want to memorize. You can make them yourself or buy a set ready to use. It’s handy, it’s easy to use, and you can learn as much as you wish. I love it and always try to have some with me. Of course, I’m joking – but I use them from time to time.
I hope that you will find something for yourself to start with.
Let me know what you use to develop new skills!