Learning Project Management Checklist
Project Definition
Created clear outcome statement for the learning project
Established specific, measurable success criteria
Defined scope boundaries (what’s included and excluded)
Connected project to broader goals and purposes
Identified required resources (time, materials, support)
Determined appropriate project timeframe
Clarified priority level relative to other commitments
Goal Setting
Created SMART+ learning goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Process-oriented)
Balanced outcome goals (what to achieve) with process goals (actions to take)
Established both short-term and long-term objectives
Set challenging but realistic targets
Created measurable indicators of progress
Connected goals to intrinsic motivation factors
Documented goals in visible location for reference
Project Breakdown
Identified major components or sub-skills
Arranged components in logical learning sequence
Broke components into specific learnable chunks
Determined dependencies between elements
Created learning map showing relationships
Identified potential challenges or obstacles
Established milestone markers between current state and goal
Time and Resource Planning
Conducted realistic time audit of available learning time
Identified optimal time blocks for different learning activities
Scheduled specific learning sessions in calendar
Allocated appropriate resources to different project components
Created contingency buffers for unexpected delays
Balanced learning with other life commitments
Established at least one “non-negotiable” regular learning session
Learning Environment Design
Optimized physical learning space (comfort, ergonomics, supplies)
Prepared digital environment (tools, resources, reduced distractions)
Considered social environment needs (support, accountability)
Developed psychological environment strategies (mindset, focus techniques)
Created different environments for different learning activities
Removed friction points that prevent starting
Established start and end rituals for learning sessions
Support System Development
Identified potential formal support (teachers, coaches, mentors)
Arranged peer support (study groups, learning partners)
Connected with relevant communities of practice
Established accountability mechanisms
Prepared technical support resources
Created communication plan for seeking help
Developed approach for sharing progress with supporters
Tracking and Management Systems
Selected appropriate project management approach
Created progress tracking mechanisms
Established regular review schedule (daily, weekly, monthly)
Developed documentation system for learning insights
Created decision-making framework for adjustments
Set up reminder systems for scheduled learning
Prepared templates for planning and reflection
Motivation Strategy
Connected project to intrinsic motivators (purpose, mastery, autonomy)
Developed identity-based motivation statements
Created visible progress indicators
Planned strategic rewards for milestone achievements
Prepared strategies for motivation challenges
Established social accountability for consistency
Created motivational environment cues and reminders
Obstacle Management
Identified potential obstacles and challenges
Developed specific strategies for each obstacle type
Created implementation intentions for common challenges
Prepared approaches for procrastination management
Developed strategies for handling overwhelm
Created plateau navigation approaches
Established setback recovery procedures
Learning Habit Design
Identified key habits needed for project success
Created clear habit triggers or cues
Designed appropriately small initial habit versions
Established immediate rewards for habit completion
Developed tracking system for habit consistency
Created environmental supports for habits
Prepared strategies for maintaining habits during disruptions
Project Adaptation
Scheduled regular project review points
Established criteria for approach adjustments
Created protocols for scope modifications if needed
Developed strategy for method pivoting if necessary
Prepared approach for leveraging unexpected opportunities
Created decision framework for major project changes
Established minimum viable outcomes if constraints change
Project Completion and Transition
Planned consolidation activities for project conclusion
Created approach for knowledge/skill preservation
Developed application plan for new learning
Established ongoing maintenance strategy
Prepared reflection protocol for learning process insights
Created celebration plan for project completion
Developed transition approach to next learning projects