If you haven’t already, make sure to read our guide on the Characteristics of a Good Instructor to see how these principles align with your teaching style.
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| Principles of Learning |
1. Stimulation Through the Senses
Learning is a response to stimuli. The more senses involved (sight, hearing, touch), the more profound the change in behavior. This is why we advocate for using real-world objects over 2D drawings—it stimulates the senses more effectively.
2. The Power of "Learning by Doing"
As the common expression goes, "We learn to do by doing." Learning requires activity. An instructor must provide opportunities for hands-on practice. Theoretical knowledge is a seed, but "doing" is the water that makes it grow.
3. Building on Past Experience
Learning starts with what the learner knows, not what the teacher knows. Effective instruction links new information to the trainee's existing knowledge. At Guitar Smart Supporter, for example, we teach new chords by relating them to finger patterns the student already mastered.
4. Interest, Attention, and Concentration
Interest is an inner feeling that directs attention. When a student is interested, they attend; when they attend, they concentrate. This concentration leads to a purposeful experience that culminates in real, lasting learning.
5. The "Success Breeds Success" Principle
Early success increases the chances of effective learning. When a trainee experiences satisfaction from a job well done, they are motivated to learn more. It is the instructor's job to sequence tasks so that students achieve small wins early on.
6. Purpose and Application
A learner has the right to know why they are spending their time, effort, and money. When a student is convinced of the purpose and practical application of a lesson, their learning becomes quicker and more meaningful.
7. The Necessity of Continuous Evaluation
Self-evaluation is the engine of progress. Trainees must constantly compare their work against a high standard of accomplishment. Much like tracking your fitness progress on the Healthy Living Hub, tracking educational progress is essential for growth.
8. Recognition and Incentive
Recognition is a powerful stimulant. Trainees deserve credit for work well done. When an instructor provides honest credit, it builds a strong incentive for the student to strive for even better results.
Comparison: Teaching vs. Learning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is "Learning by Doing" so effective? Active participation creates stronger neural pathways than passive listening. When a trainee physically performs a task, they are reinforcing the muscle memory and cognitive understanding simultaneously.
How does past experience affect new learning? Past experience acts as the foundation. If an instructor starts a lesson at a level where the student has no prior connection, the "gap" is too large, and the student will likely fail to grasp the new concept.
What role does credit play in the classroom? Recognition satisfies a fundamental human need for achievement. By giving credit where it is deserved, you create a positive feedback loop that encourages the trainee to maintain a high standard of work.
Also Read Major Difference Between PRINCIPLES OF TEACHING and PROCESS OF
