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Dr. Terrence Sejnowski
and
Barbara Oakley
Mindshift is designed to help boost your career and life in today’s fast-paced learning environment. Whatever your age or stage, Mindshift teaches you essentials such as how to get the most out of online learning and MOOCs, how to seek out and work with mentors, the secrets to avoiding career ruts (and catastrophes) and general ruts in life, and insights such as the value of selective ignorance over general competence. We’ll provide practical insights from science about how to learn and change effectively even in maturity, and we’ll build on what you already know to take your life’s learning in fantastic new directions. This course is designed to show you how to look at what you’re learning, and your place in what’s unfolding in the society around you, so you can be what you want to be, given the real world constraints that life puts on us all. You’ll see that by using certain mental tools and insights, you can learn and do more—far more—than you might have ever dreamed!
Read more
Mindshift is designed to help boost your career and life in today’s fast-paced learning environment. Whatever your age or stage, Mindshift teaches you essentials such as how to get the most out of online learning and MOOCs, how to seek out and work with mentors, the secrets to avoiding career ruts (and catastrophes) and general ruts in life, and insights such as the value of selective ignorance over general competence. We’ll provide practical insights from science about how to learn and change effectively even in maturity, and we’ll build on what you already know to take your life’s learning in fantastic new directions. This course is designed to show you how to look at what you’re learning, and your place in what’s unfolding in the society around you, so you can be what you want to be, given the real world constraints that life puts on us all. You’ll see that by using certain mental tools and insights, you can learn and do more—far more—than you might have ever dreamed!
Read more
Mindshift is designed to help boost your career and life in today’s fast-paced learning environment. Whatever your age or stage, Mindshift teaches you essentials such as how to get the most out of online learning and MOOCs, how to seek out and work with mentors, the secrets to avoiding career ruts (and catastrophes) and general ruts in life, and insights such as the value of selective ignorance over general competence. We’ll provide practical insights from science about how to learn and change effectively even in maturity, and we’ll build on what you already know to take your life’s learning in fantastic new directions. This course is designed to show you how to look at what you’re learning, and your place in what’s unfolding in the society around you, so you can be what you want to be, given the real world constraints that life puts on us all. You’ll see that by using certain mental tools and insights, you can learn and do more—far more—than you might have ever dreamed!
This course can be taken independent of, concurrent with, or subsequent to, its companion course, Learning How to Learn. (Mindshift is more career focused, and Learning How to Learn is more learning focused.)
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/9xsz19/mindshift
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What's inside
Syllabus
Change IS possible
In today's world, change is the only constant. This means that whatever stage you are in life, you need to keep yourself open and able to change. How can you do this? In three ways: Learn more about your hidden capabilities and assets. Learn more about learning effectively. Learn about matching your assets with the opportunities that face you. In this week, we'll dive into these three important areas!
Read more
Syllabus
Change IS possible
In today's world, change is the only constant. This means that whatever stage you are in life, you need to keep yourself open and able to change. How can you do this? In three ways: Learn more about your hidden capabilities and assets. Learn more about learning effectively. Learn about matching your assets with the opportunities that face you. In this week, we'll dive into these three important areas!
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches learners about a mindset shift for a fast-paced learning environment, which is current with trends in lifelong learning
Explores the concept of hidden capabilities and assets, which is not commonly covered in other courses
Provides practical insights from science about how to learn and change effectively, which may resonate with learners looking for actionable advice
Offers career-focused insights, which may appeal to learners who are looking to advance their careers
It is unclear whether the course offers any hands-on exercises or practical activities, which may be important for some learners
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Reviews summary
Mindshift: learning for career and life
According to learners, Mindshift is a largely positive course that provides valuable insights for career and life transitions. Many found the content to be practical and actionable, offering concrete strategies like building a 'talent stack' and navigating career changes. The instructors are frequently praised for being engaging and knowledgeable. Students often see this course as an excellent follow-up or companion to 'Learning How to Learn', specifically appreciating its deeper dive into career applications. While the course is widely recommended, a minority of reviewers felt the concepts were high-level or lacked depth for those with prior knowledge.
Specific ideas were eye-opening
"The module on 'talent stack' was particularly eye-opening..."
"The insights on mentors and networking were very useful."
"The section on 'selective ignorance' is counter-intuitive but makes a lot of sense."
"The 'talent stack' concept alone is worth the price of admission..."
"The concept of building a 'talent stack' resonated strongly."
Good follow-up to related course
"Mindshift offers valuable techniques for lifelong learning, building on concepts from Learning How to Learn."
"Excellent follow-up to Learning How to Learn!..."
"Solid course... It reinforces ideas from Learning How to Learn but gives them a practical career spin."
"Good companion to Learning How to Learn."
Knowledgeable and inspiring teachers
"Dr. Oakley and Dr. Sejnowski are fantastic instructors..."
"The instructors are engaging and make complex ideas easy to understand."
"The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and inspiring."
"The instructors are excellent communicators."
Offers actionable tools and advice
"...combining practical advice with scientific insights."
"Practical exercises help apply the concepts immediately."
"This course is even more practical..."
"The practical tools and strategies for lifelong learning were exactly what I needed."
"...provides actionable strategies for learning and adapting."
Provides practical help for careers
"This course truly shifted my perspective on learning and career growth."
"Highly recommended for professionals seeking to stay relevant. The content on navigating career changes and avoiding ruts is spot on."
"Mindshift dives deeper into the career aspect."
"It reinforces ideas from Learning How to Learn but gives them a practical career spin."
"Amazing course for navigating change! It gave me the confidence and strategies to pivot in my career."
Lacks depth for some learners
"I found this course disappointing. It covers very high-level concepts and lacks depth."
"It felt more like a motivational talk than a practical guide."
"Very basic information presented as groundbreaking. Mostly motivational fluff with little substance."
"Some of the advice felt a bit generic. It's a good introduction to the topic but don't expect revolutionary insights..."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Mindshift: Break Through Obstacles to Learning and Discover Your Hidden Potential with these
activities:
Review key concepts from previous learning experiences related to learning and career development.
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of foundational concepts to enhance your engagement with the course material.
Browse courses on
Learning Theories
Show steps
-
Go through your notes or materials from previous courses or workshops on learning and career development.
-
Identify the key concepts and theories that are relevant to this course.
-
Create a mind map or summary to organize your refreshed knowledge.
Read 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success' by Carol Dweck
Show steps
Review the key concepts of growth mindset and fixed mindset to understand how they relate to learning and career development.
View
Mindset (Hindi)
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly and take notes on the main ideas.
-
Identify examples from your own life where you have experienced both growth and fixed mindsets.
-
Reflect on how the concepts in the book can help you develop a more growth-oriented mindset.
Watch video tutorials on effective note-taking and time management techniques.
Show steps
Enhance your learning skills by exploring proven techniques for effective note-taking and time management.
Show steps
-
Search for video tutorials on note-taking and time management techniques.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key strategies and tips.
-
Apply the techniques in your own learning and work environment.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Join or start peer study or discussion groups related to course topics.
Show steps
Engage with peers, exchange ideas, and enhance your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
-
Find or create peer study groups through online platforms or social media.
-
Meet regularly to discuss course concepts, share perspectives, and support each other's learning.
-
Participate actively in discussions and contribute to the group's overall knowledge.
Complete exercises and quizzes related to learning strategies and career planning.
Show steps
Engage in practical exercises to reinforce your understanding and develop your skills in learning and career management.
Show steps
-
Find online exercises or quizzes related to learning strategies and career planning.
-
Complete the exercises or quizzes to test your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
-
Review your results and make adjustments to your learning or career plans as needed.
Participate in workshops on topics such as resume writing, interview skills, or career exploration.
Show steps
Acquire practical skills and knowledge through interactive workshops designed to enhance your career development.
Show steps
-
Identify workshops that focus on topics relevant to your career goals.
-
Attend the workshops and actively participate in the activities and discussions.
-
Apply the techniques and strategies learned in the workshops to your own career development.
Attend online or in-person networking events related to your field or industry.
Show steps
Expand your professional network and gain insights from individuals in your field.
Show steps
-
Identify industry events, meetups, or webinars that align with your interests.
-
Attend the events and actively participate in discussions and networking opportunities.
-
Follow up with individuals you connect with and explore potential collaborations or learning opportunities.
Develop a personal learning plan that aligns with your career goals.
Show steps
Create a personalized roadmap for your learning and career development, ensuring alignment with your aspirations.
Show steps
-
Reflect on your career goals and identify the skills and knowledge you need to achieve them.
-
Research and identify learning resources, courses, or programs that can help you acquire the necessary skills.
-
Create a timeline and schedule for your learning activities.
-
Monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Volunteer in organizations or projects that align with your career interests.
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to your community while exploring potential career paths.
Show steps
-
Identify volunteer opportunities that are related to your career goals.
-
Contact the organizations and express your interest in volunteering.
-
Actively participate in the volunteer activities and take on responsibilities that align with your interests.
-
Reflect on your experience and identify transferable skills and knowledge.
Review key concepts from previous learning experiences related to learning and career development.
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of foundational concepts to enhance your engagement with the course material.
Browse courses on
Learning Theories
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go through your notes or materials from previous courses or workshops on learning and career development.
- Identify the key concepts and theories that are relevant to this course.
- Create a mind map or summary to organize your refreshed knowledge.
Read 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success' by Carol Dweck
Show steps
Review the key concepts of growth mindset and fixed mindset to understand how they relate to learning and career development.
View
Mindset (Hindi)
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly and take notes on the main ideas.
- Identify examples from your own life where you have experienced both growth and fixed mindsets.
- Reflect on how the concepts in the book can help you develop a more growth-oriented mindset.
Watch video tutorials on effective note-taking and time management techniques.
Show steps
Enhance your learning skills by exploring proven techniques for effective note-taking and time management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for video tutorials on note-taking and time management techniques.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key strategies and tips.
- Apply the techniques in your own learning and work environment.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Join or start peer study or discussion groups related to course topics.
Show steps
Engage with peers, exchange ideas, and enhance your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or create peer study groups through online platforms or social media.
- Meet regularly to discuss course concepts, share perspectives, and support each other's learning.
- Participate actively in discussions and contribute to the group's overall knowledge.
Complete exercises and quizzes related to learning strategies and career planning.
Show steps
Engage in practical exercises to reinforce your understanding and develop your skills in learning and career management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online exercises or quizzes related to learning strategies and career planning.
- Complete the exercises or quizzes to test your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
- Review your results and make adjustments to your learning or career plans as needed.
Participate in workshops on topics such as resume writing, interview skills, or career exploration.
Show steps
Acquire practical skills and knowledge through interactive workshops designed to enhance your career development.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify workshops that focus on topics relevant to your career goals.
- Attend the workshops and actively participate in the activities and discussions.
- Apply the techniques and strategies learned in the workshops to your own career development.
Attend online or in-person networking events related to your field or industry.
Show steps
Expand your professional network and gain insights from individuals in your field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify industry events, meetups, or webinars that align with your interests.
- Attend the events and actively participate in discussions and networking opportunities.
- Follow up with individuals you connect with and explore potential collaborations or learning opportunities.
Develop a personal learning plan that aligns with your career goals.
Show steps
Create a personalized roadmap for your learning and career development, ensuring alignment with your aspirations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reflect on your career goals and identify the skills and knowledge you need to achieve them.
- Research and identify learning resources, courses, or programs that can help you acquire the necessary skills.
- Create a timeline and schedule for your learning activities.
- Monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Volunteer in organizations or projects that align with your career interests.
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to your community while exploring potential career paths.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify volunteer opportunities that are related to your career goals.
- Contact the organizations and express your interest in volunteering.
- Actively participate in the volunteer activities and take on responsibilities that align with your interests.
- Reflect on your experience and identify transferable skills and knowledge.
Career center
Learners who complete Mindshift: Break Through Obstacles to Learning and Discover Your Hidden Potential will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Career Counselor
Career Counselor
The course Mindshift: Break Through Obstacles to Learning and Discover Your Hidden Potential is designed to help individuals enhance their career prospects. It provides practical strategies for navigating the fast-paced learning environment, maximizing online learning opportunities, and developing a growth mindset. By taking this course, Career Counselors can refine their skills in guiding clients through career transitions, helping them identify their strengths and potential, and empowering them to make informed decisions about their professional development.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
The Mindshift course is a valuable resource for Instructional Designers who seek to enhance their understanding of effective learning principles and methodologies. The course provides insights into adult learning theories, motivation techniques, and strategies for creating engaging and interactive learning experiences. By incorporating these concepts into their designs, Instructional Designers can optimize learning outcomes and create effective training programs.
Learning and Development Manager
Learning and Development Manager
Mindshift provides a comprehensive framework for Learning and Development Managers to enhance their skills in fostering a culture of learning and growth within organizations. The course emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and mindset shifts. By applying the principles taught in the course, Learning and Development Managers can develop effective learning strategies, promote knowledge sharing, and empower employees to reach their full potential.
Consultant
Consultant
The Mindshift course can be highly beneficial for Consultants who work with clients on a variety of challenges, including business transformation, strategic planning, and organizational development. The course provides valuable insights into mindset shifts, adaptability, and continuous learning, which are essential qualities for Consultants. By understanding these principles, Consultants can better guide clients through change processes, foster innovation, and achieve successful outcomes.
Educator
Educator
Educators can greatly benefit from the Mindshift course as it provides practical strategies for creating effective learning environments and promoting student engagement. The course emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts, motivation, and personalized learning. By integrating these principles into their teaching practices, Educators can make learning more accessible, enjoyable, and transformative for students.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
The Mindshift course is highly relevant for Human Resources Managers who are responsible for talent management, employee development, and organizational culture. The course offers valuable insights into mindset shifts, adaptability, and continuous learning, which are crucial for HR professionals. By understanding these principles, HR Managers can effectively support employees' career growth, foster a positive work environment, and drive organizational success.
Life Coach
Life Coach
Mindshift can be a valuable resource for Life Coaches who seek to empower their clients to overcome obstacles, achieve personal growth, and unlock their full potential. The course provides practical strategies for mindset shifts, goal setting, and resilience. By incorporating these principles into their coaching practice, Life Coaches can effectively guide clients in navigating challenges, developing a growth mindset, and creating a more fulfilling life.
Manager
Manager
The Mindshift course offers valuable insights for Managers who seek to create high-performing teams and foster a culture of continuous learning. The course emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts, adaptability, and effective communication. By applying these principles, Managers can inspire their teams to embrace challenges, innovate, and achieve exceptional results.
Organizational Development Consultant
Organizational Development Consultant
The Mindshift course is highly relevant for Organizational Development Consultants who work with organizations to improve performance and drive change. The course provides valuable insights into mindset shifts, adaptability, and continuous learning, which are essential for OD Consultants. By understanding these principles, OD Consultants can effectively guide organizations through transformation processes, foster a culture of innovation, and achieve sustainable success.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Mindshift can be beneficial for Project Managers who seek to enhance their leadership skills and manage projects effectively. The course emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts, adaptability, and effective communication. By incorporating these principles into their project management approach, Project Managers can inspire their teams, navigate challenges, and deliver successful outcomes.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
The Mindshift course may be helpful for Sales Managers who seek to enhance their leadership skills and drive team performance. The course provides insights into mindset shifts, motivation, and communication. By applying these principles, Sales Managers can create a positive and empowering work environment, inspire their teams to achieve ambitious goals, and drive sales growth.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
While not directly related to the field of software engineering, the Mindshift course may offer some benefits for Software Engineers who seek to enhance their problem-solving skills and adaptability. The course emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts and continuous learning. By embracing these principles, Software Engineers can approach challenges with a fresh perspective, learn new technologies and methodologies, and contribute to innovative solutions.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Similar to Software Engineers, Web Developers may find some value in the Mindshift course. It can provide insights into mindset shifts, adaptability, and continuous learning. By incorporating these principles into their approach, Web Developers can stay up-to-date with emerging technologies, embrace new design trends, and create user-centric web experiences.
Writer
Writer
The Mindshift course can be beneficial for Writers who seek to enhance their creativity and overcome writer's block. The course emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts and continuous learning. By embracing these principles, Writers can develop a growth mindset, explore new writing techniques, and produce captivating content.
Entrepreneur
Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs may find some value in the Mindshift course as it offers insights into mindset shifts, adaptability, and resilience. These principles are essential for navigating the challenges and uncertainties of entrepreneurship. By embracing these principles, Entrepreneurs can stay motivated, embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, and build successful ventures.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/9xsz19/mindshift
Featured in The Course Notes
This course is mentioned in our blog,
The Course Notes. Read
three articles that feature
Mindshift: Break Through Obstacles to Learning and Discover Your Hidden...:
Your 2025 New Year's Resolution Guide: Master Any Skill with Online Courses
19 minute read
Staying Motivated into the New Year: 12 Online Courses for Lasting Productivity
14 minute read
Using Online Courses as Study Tools: Unlocking Academic Success
11 minute read
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Mindshift: Break Through Obstacles to Learning and Discover Your Hidden Potential.
Provides practical strategies for effective learning, including techniques for improving focus, memory, and motivation. It complements the course's content on learning science and the challenges associated with procrastination.
Save
Provides a practical guide to forming and breaking habits, based on scientific research. It complements the course's content on learning effectively and developing a positive mindset.
This classic book offers a framework for personal and professional development and effectiveness. It complements the course's content on career planning and the importance of setting goals.
Save
Explores the concept of a fixed vs. growth mindset, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and learning from mistakes. It aligns with the course's focus on changing perspectives and developing a mindset conducive to learning and growth.
Save
Explores the role of grit and perseverance in success and achievement. It aligns with the course's emphasis on embracing challenges and developing a growth mindset.
Provides a comprehensive guide to career planning and development, including self-assessment, goal setting, and networking. It complements the course's focus on career transitions and finding fulfillment in one's work.
Explores the psychological aspects of money and investing, providing insights into how emotions and biases can influence financial decisions. It complements the course's discussion of career planning and the importance of financial literacy.
Save
Examines the science of habit formation and provides insights into how to break bad habits and create new ones. It is relevant to the course's discussion of career ruts and the importance of self-reflection and change.
Save
Explores the power of vulnerability and its role in personal growth and success. It complements the course's focus on overcoming obstacles and embracing challenges.
Save
Promotes an unconventional approach to career and lifestyle design, emphasizing the importance of automation, outsourcing, and time management. It aligns with the course's discussion of career ruts and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.
Save
Offers strategies for effective time management and focus, helping individuals overcome procrastination and maximize productivity. It aligns with the course's discussion of career ruts and the importance of setting priorities.
Examines the challenges faced by established companies when confronted with disruptive technologies. It aligns with the course's discussion of career ruts and the need to embrace change.
Challenges the traditional view of introversion and highlights the strengths and contributions of introverts. It aligns with the course's emphasis on diversity and the importance of embracing individual differences.
Provides a practical and engaging account of one woman's year-long experiment to increase her happiness. It aligns with the course's emphasis on personal growth and mindfulness.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/9xsz19/mindshift
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Effort
Two hours of study per week, for four weeks.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
McMaster University
Instructors
Dr. Terrence Sejnowski
Barbara Oakley
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
Featured in The Course Notes
Read
three articles that feature
this course,
Mindshift: Break Through Obstacles to Learning and Discover Your Hidden...
from our blog, The Course Notes:
Your 2025 New Year's Resolution Guide: Master Any Skill with Online Courses
19 minute read
Staying Motivated into the New Year: 12 Online Courses for Lasting Productivity
14 minute read
Using Online Courses as Study Tools: Unlocking Academic Success
11 minute read
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
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