I’ve been at my current work for six months, and it utilizes a technology I’ve never used before (but am trying really hard to learn). I frequently receive assignments that I find quite challenging. I warn against it, stating that I’ve never done it before and that it will be challenging. I receive some assistance, but the work is usually done poorly and takes much longer than expected. This causes me a great deal of worry and embarrasses me because QA frequently rejects my work.

I support education, but this is simply too much. I must learn things gradually rather than all at once. Alternately, take a legitimate course on the topic.

How can I talk to my boss about this without looking like I’m useless or backing away from challenges?