Enhancing Personal Development Through Self-Managed Learning

Based on the provided content, I have analyzed my work situation properly and taken most appropriate decisions. However, there are still areas that need improvement, including conflict management and team building skills, as well as enhancing interaction and analytical skills to bring more effective work analysis and evaluation tactics. To achieve this, I plan to work on minimizing loopholes in my Personal and Professional Development (PPD) program by reviewing and evaluating self-learning regularly. This includes planning, designing, and executing plans that lead towards the right direction.

Personal and Professional
Development

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction .....................................................................................................................................4
TASK 1............................................................................................................................................4
a)..................................................................................................................................................4
b)..................................................................................................................................................6
c)..................................................................................................................................................7
d)..................................................................................................................................................7
e)..................................................................................................................................................8
TASK 2............................................................................................................................................9
a)..................................................................................................................................................9
b)................................................................................................................................................11
c)................................................................................................................................................11
d)................................................................................................................................................12
e)................................................................................................................................................13
f).................................................................................................................................................13
g)................................................................................................................................................14
h)................................................................................................................................................14
Conclusion.....................................................................................................................................15
REFERENCE.................................................................................................................................16
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Illustration Index
Illustration 1: VARK MODEL........................................................................................................5
Illustration 2: Honey and Mumford Model......................................................................................6
3

INTRODUCTION
Change has always been integral part of modern business world. It is remarked by
development of technology, business innovations and functions. Therefore, it becomes emerging
need for everyone to upgrade and develop their own knowledge, skills and abilities to meet with
the pace of changing environment (Burkšaitiene, Tereseviciene and Kaminskiene, 2011).
Personal and Professional Development (PPD) is one such tool which is helpful for one to work
on self-learning. The significance of the same is to say active and participative for positive
outcome in growth and development. This report will covers the evaluation of own self-learning
styles with the preparation of PPD plan and its implementation.
TASK 1
a)
Approaches to self managed learning
Learning through research
With this learning, phenomenon is analyzed for arriving at a conclusion (Connelly,
2004). It helps one to understand the concepts in detail.
Internet and social media
It is one of best way of modern learning where information can be acquired from the
insight of others opinion. Websites, social networking sites etc are the best source of information
(Field, 2006). Internet may further help in my digital learning at my wokrplace. It would let me
to bring the outside experience to inside environment of the organization. This aid advance
innovation and development in the institution. Self-managed learning also guides to addition my
social interaction skills. Self-paced challenges may help me to identify the ability to complete a
given task.
Mentoring
This is the guidance method where practical applications and concepts are taught as a
base of learning.
Different learning styles
VARK Model by Fleming
4

As per the above stated model, learning should be imparted to individual on the basis of
preferences. In accordance with the four styles stated above, learner will chose the one best way
from visual, audio, read/write or kinaesthetic (Floyd, 2012). In this way effective learning can be
designed and executed.
Honey and Mumford Model
5
Illustration 1: VARK MODEL
(Source: Guest, 2009)

Another learning model given by Honey and Mumford is based on four types. It is
applied where learner want to have experiential learning. For example, Activist are learners who
explores through experimentation. Reflector learns by the experience of others and Theorist
integrates theories and ideas for learning. Lastly, Pragmatic believes in trying new things through
observations.
b)
Identifying own learning method
It is defined as an activities that are undertaken for enhancing one's skills and knowledge
in both personal and professional way (Gijselaers, 2013). Following is a method which I have
used for my own learning:
Objective of learning:
My objective is to upgrade my skills and abilities. In this streamline, I am intended to
work on my knowledge. Books, internet and conferences are best sources.
Learning styles:
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Illustration 2: Honey and Mumford Model
(Source: The Experimental Learning Cycle, 2006 )

Every person has to adopt one type of getting things. It depends on suitable selection for
right method. I used writing and reading as my learning styles according to my need and
objective.
Recommendation:
 Proper self assessment is suggestible for evaluating and planning for oneself.
 It is recommendable to research the most suitable style for grasping required knowledge. Setting of objective is significant to achieve the desired goal (Burke, 2002).
Ways of lifelong learning
Continuous learning is must for equipping lifelong gaining of knowledge. One such way
is to make habit of regular reflection for identifying and working on one's weaknesses. Skills of
self-assessment makes person encouraged to improve current working. Scheduling own work is
advanced way of leading towards focus direction (Hillier, 2005). I believe in self-assessment and
therefore I undertake my own evaluation once in a week to achieve planned objectives.
c)
Self managed learning benefits
The significance of self-managed learning is to accomplish personal and professional
goals. It is advantageous for both individual and organization and are presented as follows:
Individual benefits
With the change in business environment, there is need to equipping oneself with respect
to current situation. Self-managed learning is helpful for one to grow in professional career as
well. Moreover, it is beneficial in enhancing one's one productivity and efficiency.
Organizational benefits
In streamline of the advantages that are offered to organization by using self-managed
learning is growth in productivity level (Connelly, 2004). It is beneficial in earning revenues and
profits with more participation and initiation of employee at work as a good decision maker.
Moreover, it develops personnel's capability to manage change with business working.
d)
Identification of work based problem and solution
I am working in a fast food restaurant of UK. It is Pizza Hut where I have experienced
listening as the core requirement and need ability. Pizza Hut themselves provide training in
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regards to upgrading employee's listening skills (Cameron, 2006). The focus is made on
persuading and convincing visitors. It is about making them attracted towards products and their
features. This is the problem which has been identified as a major work-based problem at my
workplace.
In regards to solution to this identified work-based problem, Information and
Communication Technology (ICT) can be used. It is a method which is applied to increase
training of customer service to the employees. Pizza Hut can make use of ICT as a part of their
listening training. Computer technology is the best way to enhance communication skill in
handling visitors. It is a way of working on both verbal and non verbal type of interaction.
e)
Learning style to solve stated work-based problem
In accordance to the above stated problem, VARK Model can be applied to improve
customer service. It is required to meet the effective level in challenging and competitive world
of fast food chains in UK. With the applicability of this model, employees can be trained.
Learning style feasible for particular personal will be selected.
 Charts and graphs will be used for individuals who respond to visual learning.
 Auditory tools such as sound system and lectures will be arranged for those who
preferred respective learning style (Jensen, 2013).
 If employee can serve customer in better way through reading or writing, then he will be
trained according to reading/writing methods. Kinaesthetic learning will be implemented for those who will act best by experience of
observation.
Communication at various level
Organizations have three main levels where the provided solution method is needed to be
communicated. Firstly, in communicating at strategic level where all the major decisions are
taken, I will discuss about training aims, budget plans, and advantages that will support both
customers and employees. Letters, memos, e-mail are method which will be used.
Secondly, there is tactical level where planning of training will be made (Charleson, 2012). I
will communicate information such as type of training, schedule, information, resources
requirement etc with them. I will use notice board, e-mail for transmitting information.
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Thirdly, at operational level, I will communicate information regarding execution of
training plan. For this, direct method and face to face communication will be made.
f)
Time management strategies
Effective time management is required to meet the achievement of various objectives.
Detail of such strategies have been made below:
Prioritizing work
Degree of importance of work which are essential need to be defined. Wasting of time for
unproductive work is the biggest disadvantage (Cameron, 2006). Therefore, sorting of activities
on the basis of relevance and need is one strategy to manage time.
Scheduling
Time frame allocation for every task to be performed is one best way. It helps in
accomplish work on time and may reduces last minute work pressure as well. It can be made
through the use of diaries, calenders, digital tools etc.
Setting objectives
Objectives are milestone and targets that divides work into blocks. It supports in
managing workload and deadline pressure.
In relevance to my own time management, I prefer scheduling as an effective strategy. By
allocating time for every task, I organizes my activities. By using this strategy, I avoided work
pressure.
TASK 2
a)
Evaluation of current skills and requirements and CV
Organizational goals are achieved through skills such as decision-making, interpersonal
skills, communication, problem-solving etc. I want to pursue my career at hospitality sector and
accordingly I feel Pizza Hut is the suitable place to upgrade my skills and competencies.
Working experience at this well-known fast food company is an opportunity to explore various
learning dimensions. Given below is an evaluation of my current skills at Pizza Hut and skills
required to grow in hospitality industry (Guest, 2009)..
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Current skills at Pizza Hut
 Time management skills
 Organizational abilities
 Technological skills Team building ability
Skills required in hospitality industry
 Communication and listening skills
 Analytical abilities
 Leadership skills
According to above two categories, I have presented my CV below
Curriculum Vitae
Maria Vahenson
11, New Street,
London.
Objective: To impart best of my knowledge and abilities to meet the challenging responsibility
in customer service.
Work experience:
1. Worked as an executive at Chocolate Room, London from July 2013 to December 2014.
Key responsibilities: Customer service
2. Worked as cash collection assistant at The Clink Restaurant, London from January 2015 to
July 2015.
Key responsibilities:Handling of fund.
3. Working as customer service assistant at Pizza Hut,London from September 2015 till now.
Key responsibilities:Customer service, Order taking management, Sales.
Education:
 Level 3 in Customer Service Management
 Level 2 in English Certification program
 Mathematics and Arts (Pass)
Skills and abilities
 Time management skills
 Organizational abilities
 Technological skills
 Team building ability
b)
Identification of development needs
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The points given below are my own skill development need for achieving my growth
prospectus in hospitality sector:
Developing analytical skills
As a customer service assistant, I have to manage working of collecting orders effective
by providing best of customer services. It demands proper analysis and evaluation tactics which
support in solving problems (Anderson and Keller, 2002). For this, I can joining course program
for developing analytical skills.
Increasing leadership skills
According to my position at present workplace, I feel taking right decision is utmost
priority. I can work out the same my imparting responsibilities in team . By monitoring team,
issues such as conflicts can be handled. Moreover, I will participate in conferences on leadership
programs.
Enhancing communication and listening skills
These types of skills are improved at best on self-efforts basis. I will refers magazines,
books, newspaper, audios listening etc to work on my skills.
The significance of these skills are required to develop my personal and professional
development.
c)
Identification of current and future needs
It has been made in tabular presentation below:
Table 1: Current and future needs
Current needs Future needs Opportunities
Developing analytical skills Working on improving
communication through
discussions and interactions
Make use of magazines,
newspapers, books etc
Attending communications
seminars and conferences.
Increasing leadership skills Be able to make effective
decision for team well-being
To solve conflicts and barriers
Attending leadership programs
Imparting work in team for
gaining self directing abilities
Enhancing communication and
listening skills
Be able to analyze the current
workplace situation
Participate more in problem
solving activities
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The above stated set of opportunities for my identified current and future need will help
me to enhance my skills and abilities to work at hospitality sector as higher post.
d)
Designing Personal Development Plan (PDP)
PDP is a tool which is used for evaluating learning opportunities of an individual by
setting objectives. I have designed it by using SMART goals which will help me to achieve my
future need.
Objectives
(Long term and short
term)
List of activities and
timescale
Achievement Constraints
Long term: To improve
communication skills
 Reading Time of
India for one
hour daily.
 Listen top
leaders speech
on YouTube.
 Participate
interaction
course for
improving
specking skills
after January,
2016.
Enable to communicate
at my company.
Speaking abilities will
become smart
(Marquardt and Loan,
2006).
Selection of
suitable course
for speaking and
communication.
Short term: To develop
verbal and non-verbal
learning method.
Long term: To learn
leadership skills
 Reading
biography of
different great
leaders from
business world.
 To learn various
team building
tactics.
Improved with
interpersonal skills and
abilities.
Behavioral and attitude
learning of leading
other member at
workplace.
Lack of
effective
resources
Ineffective team
may not be
possible.
Short term: To increase
team building abilities
Long term: To work on
analytical abilities
 Evaluating two
business case
studies daily.
 Discussing with
mentors to grasp
problem-solving
abilities.
Be able to analyze and
evaluate the
organizational
situations.
Develop confidence in
self decision-making.
Managing time
on daily basis
Appointment
with mentors
Short term: To develop
decision-making
capabilities
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e)
Implementation of developing plan
PPD stated above is the method which has been used for meeting short and long term
objectives. These are stated in table below:
Long term objectives Short term objectives
 To improve communication skills
 To learn leadership skills
 To work on analytical abilities
 To develop verbal and non-verbal
learning method.
 To increase team building abilities
 To develop decision-making
capabilities
I will implement following activities in order to meet short and long term objectives as
follows:
 Participate module course program to develop my communication, listening, analytical
and leadership skills.
 Contact those learned and experienced men tor who will help in sharpening my skills and
abilities (Guest, 2009).
 Make subscription for Times of India and business magazines to improve my personal
and professional skills.
f)
Documentation of development plan
On the basis of above stated PDP and development plan, I have documented the activities
in following way as follows:
To enhance my leadership skills in the long run in order to direct team and build effectiveness
among them.
 I am now done with reading of biography of four top leaders from corporate world.
 Participated team work with the application of one well known team building theory.
To initiate as a good communicator with improvement of both verbal and non-verbal methods
 I have downloaded more than five videos and have worked on all.
 Enrolled myself with the communication classes for six months.
To develop my analytical skills for effective decision-making
 I have started solving one case study per day which will gradually increased to two.
 Engaged and have good discussion with two or three mentors from vivid fields.
g)
Evaluation of own learning against aims and objectives in the PDP
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I have undertaken various activities which was an attempt to improve my personal and
professional skills. It is made with an attempt to improve my career through personal
development. Therefore, I have made following consideration in regards which are stated as
follows:
1. I am successful in equipping my confidence level towards improvement.
2. I can now be able to make good and proper decision in favor of my personal as well as
professional life (Moore and Stanley, 2010).
3. I have developed my attitude and behavior towards good working at my workplace.
4. Now, I can analyze work situations properly and can take most appropriate and suitable
decisions.
However, there are still some areas where there is need to work for bringing more
improvements. These are stated in following points:
1. There is still need to work on improving conflict management and team building skills.
2. I have more or less infused all efforts to improve my interaction skills. I still feel there is
need to polish and work on more in this regards.
3. I have improvised my analytical skills, but I still want to upgrade improvement to bring
more better work analysis and evaluation tactics.
h)
Revision of PDP based on evaluation of progress and objectives
Reviewing and evaluation of self learning is very significant (PPD, 2015). The central
idea behind the same is to work on minimizing the loopholes that are part of the my own
development program. It has been designed and planned in the table given below as follows:
Objectives
(Long term and short
term)
List of activities and
timescale
Achievement Constraints
To work on improving
situation of conflict
and problem
encountered in a team
 Listening
articles that are
available
online.
 Read various
theories on
Work on areas which
is inclusive of minor
conflict management
activities and planning
Barrier may arise in in
investing time for
reading and internet
downloading.
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conflict
management
 To undertake
learning on
conflict
management.
To make
improvisation efforts
in rising more better
communication skills
 To engage in
various
communication
activities such
as Group
discussions,
meetings,
debates etc.
Working on more
wider basis to equip
communication
abilities and skills
(Skiff, 2009).
Finding extra time on
daily basis for
practicing working
activities is difficult.
CONCLUSION
From the above report, it can be concluded that self managed learning occupies very
significant positions in one's life. Continuous development is highly required to meet the purpose
of change management of the growing world of business organizations. This calls for an
emerging need for a learner to develop on areas such as planning, designing and executing of
plans that would serve and leads towards right direction . Time plays a crucial role in growth of
one's personal and professional life. Hence, plans such as Personal and Professional
Development (PPD) plans have been applied to understand and make use of good learning
abilities and skills in one's life.
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100-115.
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Moore, B and Stanley, T., 2010. Critical Thinking and Formative Assessments: Increasing the
Rigor in Your Classroom. Eye on Education. Inc. USA.
Online
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Guest, 2009. History of learning. [Online]. Available
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