Certification Training vs. Applied Knowledge in the Age of Disinformation
The quest for knowledge and skill development in today's competitive job market often leads individuals down two distinct paths: formal certification training and acquiring knowledge through application. While both approaches have their merits, their effectiveness can be vastly different depending on the field, individual goals, and the integrity of the training providers. This article delves into the contrasting philosophies of these learning methods, exploring their strengths and weaknesses, and highlighting the dangers posed by disreputable certification companies that undermine the entire training market.
While certifications help others understand your focus areas, when is too much, and are you learning from the right people?
The Structured Strength of Certification
Formal certification programs offer a structured learning environment with a predefined curriculum, standardized assessments, and the promise of industry-recognized credentials.
These programs can be advantageous for several reasons:
Validation of Skills Earning a certification from a reputable organization validates your knowledge and skills to potential employers, enhancing your resume and marketability.
Structured Learning Certification programs provide a clear roadmap for acquiring essential knowledge and skills, ensuring you cover the necessary ground in a structured manner.
Community and Networking Many certifications offer access to professional communities and networking opportunities, which can be valuable for career advancement.
However, the rigidity of certification programs can also present limitations:
Focus on Exams, Not Application The emphasis on passing exams can distract from the practical application of knowledge, leading to rote learning that might not translate well to real-world scenarios.
Cost and Time Commitment Certification programs can be expensive and time-consuming, making them inaccessible to individuals with limited resources or tight schedules.
Limited Scope and Specificity Some certifications focus on narrow areas of knowledge, potentially neglecting broader skills and adaptability crucial in dynamic job markets.
The Power of Learning by Doing
Acquiring knowledge through application involves hands-on experience, active problem-solving, and learning by doing. This approach fosters:
Deeper Understanding The act of applying knowledge in real-world situations leads to a deeper understanding and retention of concepts compared to passive learning.
Adaptability and Innovation Learning through application fosters the ability to adapt to new situations, think creatively, and solve problems independently.
Transferable Skills The skills gained through application often translate well to different situations and career paths, increasing overall career flexibility.
However, the self-directed nature of this approach also presents challenges:
Lack of Structure and Guidance Without a structured curriculum, individuals might struggle to identify and acquire the necessary knowledge, leading to knowledge gaps and uneven skill development.
Subjectivity of Evaluation The lack of standardized assessments makes it difficult to objectively measure and validate the acquired knowledge and skills.
Limited Recognition While valuable, the knowledge gained through application might not be formally recognized by potential employers, requiring individuals to demonstrate their skills through alternative means.
The Shadow of Disreputable Certification Companies
Unfortunately, the training market is not without its pitfalls. Disreputable certification companies often exploit the allure of quick and easy credentials, offering:
Inflated Claims and Misleading Marketing These companies exaggerate the value and recognition of their certifications, misleading individuals into paying for worthless credentials.
Low-Quality Training Materials The training materials offered might be outdated, irrelevant, or simply ineffective, failing to provide genuine value to learners.
Lax Assessment Practices Disreputable companies might offer easy or fraudulent assessments, undermining the credibility of the entire certification system.
These practices not only harm individuals who invest their time and money in these programs but also damage the reputation of legitimate training providers and certifications, making it challenging for individuals to discern credible options.
Just in case, here are some reputable certification programs and companies we recommend:
Obviously, we recommend The New World of Work. Our trainers are all certified by the most reputable education organizations in our respective industries.
Scrum Alliance and Scrum.org - These two Scrum-focused companies apply a rigorous process to certify the best, most knowledgeable trainers in the world.
Kanban University is the first Kanban-focused certification organization to bring the Lean continuous flow model to business in the US.
Project Management Institute (PMI) is the world's leading source of traditional project management techniques and practices.
Training from the Back of the Room is probably the most recognized and well-respected organization that teaches trainers to educate others with their students well-being in mind. The focus here is on deep understanding of the topics taught.
Finding the Right Balance
The choice between certification training and acquiring knowledge through application is not a binary one. Both approaches have their place, and the optimal path depends on individual circumstances and career goals. Here are some guiding principles:
Define Your Needs and Goals Clearly identify what you want to achieve through learning. Are you seeking formal recognition, structured learning, or practical experience?
Research Thoroughly Before investing in any program, research the reputation of the certification body, the quality of training materials, and the relevance of the skills covered. Moreover, research the trainer offering the training. Trainers have different teaching styles and methods that may or may not agree with your learning style.
Consider the Balance Explore options that combine structured learning with opportunities for practical application.
Seek Mentorship and Guidance Connect with experienced professionals in your field to gain insights and guidance on the most effective learning paths.
Remember, the journey towards knowledge and skill development is continuous. Embrace a blended approach, leveraging the strengths of both formal training and self-directed learning to empower yourself and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of your chosen field. By prioritizing quality over convenience and actively seeking out reputable resources, you can navigate the training market effectively and unlock your true potential.
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