Guest Facilitator

I loved your comment about past struggles - that is so true. We sometimes forget that learning occurs and is retained best when there is a disconnect. Usually this is a 'mistake' or some kind of difficulty. It is important to allow students to make mistakes in a safe place (our classrooms). I share your belief that a great facilitator of learning must be a life-long learner in order to facilitate learning. Have you used Accelerated Learning before? Lou Russell

These are great topics to apply experiential learning to because OBVIOUSLY they are not topics that people learn through lecture. That explains your enthusiasm! Lou Russell www.russellmartin.com

Laura: What types of classes do you teach? Lou Russell

Petrus, Yes, I think knowledge has become more available and more complex at the same time. Combine that with the fact that everyone is moving so quickly, we have to use whole brain techniques to cover complex learning objectives quickly with maximum retention. Lou Russell

Tim: I agree, that's an important transition. I normally use rounded tables with people around one side only during PPT or rectangle tables in a fishbone so everyone can see me clearly. In software classes (with terminal work), many people line up the machines around the outside of the room, and have a large table in the middle for students to turn around and gather for the lecture. This also makes it easy for the facilitator to walk around and monitor the learning. Thanks for sharing! Lou Russell

Ekan - I once met a man who started 'Sesame Street' and he said something that influenced me a great deal. He told me that before you can teach, you must first get the student's full attention. The best way to do that is through small, interesting things like color, activity, games, environment, food and other things you mention. Lou Russell

Ekan - Excellent - this is exactly what I was looking for. Great job! Lou Russell

Ekan - It is important not use music that has voice (singing). 60 to 80 beats per minute has been proven to be effective for focusing students. Playing rock, rap or something that reflects a younger student is not likely to help learning. You are right about color - it is very cultural and specific so must be used with caution. Light blue is very calming to most... Lou Russell

Ekan - Yes, those are excellent ideas. Thanks you! Lou

Ekan: I was wondering which of the skills, tools and techniques resonated with you. Lou Russell