Page 23 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 01 11/20/02 11:26 AM Page 12
12 The Creative Training Idea Book
BRIGHT I DEA
Focusing on the Brain
ecause of the coordinated activity within different regions of the brain, learning
Bcan be enhanced through a multilevel approach to training. To do this ensure
that programs, support materials, and environments offer adequate stimulation.
Incorporate a variety of auditory and visual aids (e.g., handouts with colored covers,
graphics and bullet points, background music at 60 beats per minute played during
certain activities, and inspirational quotes or posters tied to program content in a
variety of colors posted on walls). Also, allow learners many opportunities to discuss
and process information individually and in small groups.

HOW LEARNING OCCURS

The term learning is often misused when related to the training of adults and the edu-
cation of children. True adult learning environments focus on the participant and not
the facilitator. After all, it is the learner whose behavior, knowledge, skills, or attitude is
expected to change. This is often a major difference in the approach used by teachers
and trainers in helping participants to learn. Educators often function as change agents
who present information to students in an attempt to create a basis for future learning,
as children have limited experience or knowledge and have not developed systems to
learn. On the other hand, adults have many experiences from which they can draw ideas,
information, and knowledge that builds on whatever they are currently experiencing in
a learning environment. Assuming that someone has no learning disorder or disability,
learning, and the speed at which someone learns, is impacted primarily by four impor-
tant factors: an individual’s age, prior experience, motivation to learn, and intelligence.
Neuroscientists who study anatomy, chemistry, physiology, and molecular biology
of the nervous system continue to make amazing discoveries about the brain and how
it learns. For example, they have found that proper development of a child’s brain de-
pends on continuous interaction with elements of the external environment. Similarly,
adult attention, learning, knowledge, skill development, and memory are impacted sig-
nificantly by the learning environment. This is why so much attention is necessary when
you create your learning environments. All aspects must be considered, including such
things as the amount of light in a room, wall color, temperature, furniture arrangement,
appearance, your appearance and posture, smells, nutrition, sounds, and activities that
will be used (see Chapter 7).
There are many ways in which humans receive information and other stimuli, and
ultimately how they learn from what is encountered. Each person’s needs and approach
to learning are unique. For that reason, you need to recognize the importance of vary-
ing the techniques and strategies you use in providing information and concepts. Also,