Working with health sciences students is a fulfilling experience, and as I reflect on my work, I am constantly reminded of its impact on their academic and personal growth. And, in that growth, the desire to see our intentions and the fruition of our goals in the RIGHT NOW mode is always looming. You know that quick and instant feeling. I wonder if this is an innate thing we desire to have or if it has grown over the years because we are becoming a fast-paced world. But something can be said for the slow-cooked method- that old crock pot type of world. It returns to the phrase "slow and steady wins the race."
You want to complete your coursework for your academic program and get to the thesis or dissertation. And, then, when you are at that thesis and dissertation point, you want to finish because you are tired, anxious to hold that degree, or because you have set goals and a timeline to complete your work. I have seen, heard, and been there. At this point, I want you to STOP and think about what type of learner you are.
Do you work in the Instant-pot or Crock-pot mode as a student?
Let me define each.
Instant-pot student: Coursework is completed by taking more than the required courses within a semester, moving through the writing process faster than the traditional process.
Crock-pot student: Coursework is completed by taking one or two courses a semester; focuses on one section of the writing process at a time and knows seven years are available to complete your work.
It's important to remember that there are many best approaches to learning. However, it's essential to develop your skills and use them effectively. The master's and doctoral programs are designed to help you achieve this. It's similar to learning clinical skills in healthcare - there are procedures and steps to follow to achieve the best outcome. Ultimately, you want a well-thought-out result that makes you a more analytical and metacognitive individual, capable of using the tools in your program to contribute to your field.
No one way is the best, but it is crucial to consider why each has its purpose.
As you progress with your studies, take some time to reflect on why you applied to the program in the first place. Consider your desired outcomes and how you plan to use the tools, skills, and knowledge you will acquire over the years. Once you realize the greater purpose, your potential in your field will be tremendous.
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