Hliðarnámi

Hliðarnámi is an Icelandic term that translates to "side study" or "parallel learning." It refers to the practice of pursuing education or acquiring knowledge outside of one's primary or formal academic or vocational path. This can encompass a wide range of activities, from self-taught skills and personal projects to informal courses and workshops taken concurrently with a main degree or job.

The concept of hliðarnámi acknowledges that learning is not confined to traditional institutions. Individuals might engage in hliðarnámi to explore a passion, develop a complementary skill set that enhances their main field, or simply for personal enrichment. For instance, a student pursuing a degree in computer science might undertake hliðarnámi in graphic design to better understand user interface development, or an engineer might learn a new language for personal travel or potential international collaboration.

This approach often highlights a proactive and self-directed approach to personal and professional development. It can be driven by curiosity, the desire for versatility, or the need to adapt to a rapidly changing job market. The outcomes of hliðarnámi can range from gaining a new hobby to acquiring a valuable skill that opens up new career opportunities. It emphasizes a lifelong learning perspective, where continuous acquisition of knowledge is seen as integral to personal growth and adaptability.