The Story

Ten years ago we were teaching adults to face professional transitions and the need for acquiring new technological skills as result of changes in the workforce environment. It was the beginning of the demands for life-long learning as a necessary concept for employment survival in the 21st century. In this new setting of obligatory post-graduate learning we arrived  at two clear insights:

We observed in various settings of adult learning that a lot of time was spent in voicing discontent and impatience by the learners, and content was often presented in outdated styles by the instructors. Whenever  spontaneous communication on any issue occurred, a positive change in the learners’ attitude and the instructors’ approach took place, and the learning curve started to rise.

Two questions emerged:

How do we learn to communicate effectively?   Where is the link between communication and learning?

These questions started our ongoing research on   learning processes effecting successful outcomes by using interpersonal communication skills.

Studying the theories and empirical studies of many educational thinkers revealed two basic, albeit conflicting, perspectives of learning pervasive throughout mankind’s educational history.

1. The hierarchical approach: experts control every phase of the learning process.

This approach relies primarily on left-brain skills in mastering narrow-track curricula by using mostly linear, logical thinking and short-term memory. Learning outcomes are measured in test scores which are dependent on recall. The current demands for spontaneous reaction to problem-solving are poorly met for lack of developing and using  right-brain skills.

2. Learning is a birthright:  the learner controls the learning process toward the realization of his/her full learning potential.

This approach will use left and right brain skills by natural design. Whole brain learning utilizes right-brain capabilities which will make the learning process spontaneous, enthusiastic and creative to accomplish the sophisticated learning outcomes dependent on left brain skills. The landmarks of whole brain learning are always individual  discoveries rather than memorized data.

  Realizing your full potential