Category: BRAIN SCIENCE

The Bygone Lecture

I’m surprised when I talk to college students and professors these days and hear that lectures are still a common method of instruction.  This week, however, I came across two sources that challenge  the  old tradition.  The first was a study of Astro 101 (that is, Introductory Astrology) ... Read More

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Doodling Works – with Sunni Brown

I was so happy to come across this great TED talk where Sunni Brown talks about the misconceptions and benefits of doodling. It’s under 6 minutes and worth the watch! Read More Research Shows Doodling is approved!... Read More

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Multi-tasking vs. Juggling

This Fast Company article makes a great point about how multi-tasking does not necessarily make us more productive.  Likely, it’s just the opposite. Doing two things at once, like singing while you take a shower, is not the same as instant messaging while writing a research report. Don’... Read More

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Fun DOES work!

I know this Staircase Piano video has become quite popular on You Tube.  The reason I find it intriguing for trainers is because it emphasizes the importance of engaging people by using playful techniques. The takeaway: be bold and confident in your commitment to fun, even if you’re facing pe... Read More

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The Myth of Learning Style

Neil Fleming’s “VARK” model, in which he splits learners into categories based on learning style of Visual, Aural, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic, has caused quite a controversy. Critics say it’s impossible to classify learners this way and you shouldn’t change your t... Read More

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Active Learning – data says it works

I’ve been making a special effort to support the claims of the headers in our Trainers Warehouse catalogs–claims such as “active learning enhances understanding.” In fact, I spent hours yesterday, culling through research and articles to locate original sources and sound data... Read More

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Recognition increases performance 24%

As I’ve been working on copy for an upcoming catalog, I wanted to find out just how much recognition and reward affect workers’ performance.  Although the citations do not focus specifically on training and learning environments, a wealth of research strongly supports the effectiveness ... Read More

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A Vision of Student Life Today

I love this video by the students at Kansas State University. While it was produce many years ago, the increase in online learning makes it especially poignant. How does technology engage, enable, and distract us young people from life? What does student life even look like these days?... Read More

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Give ’em a break

I know you’re reluctant to take a break because you have too little time to get through all the material you need to cover.  I’ve been there too. However, all of the research (referenced below) points to the same conclusion — your group will actually retain more if you do take a b... Read More

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Making dry topics engaging

These tips were drawn from a number of LinkedIN discussions, focusing on how to make dry topics (accounting, insurance, technical training, etc.) more interesting. Perhaps the ideas listed here will get your creative juices flowing. 1. Your enthusiasm is contagious If you’re not excited about ... Read More

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