Hi-Tek Learning Strategies

Abstract

Unorthodox ways currently used in colleges to accelerate the velocity of learning are reviewed. To augment persuasion and articulation ability of business school students, stand-up comedy is used (University of Chicago). Song writing, storytelling and improvisation (VanderbiltUniversity-Owens Management), and for Shakespearean motivation for other management skills at the corporate execu-tive level (Northrup Grumman). Food “chow-down”, before and during classes, including pizza and chocolate candy, for relaxation and memory stimulation. The aromatherapy path to the learning, the path of music and subliminal sound---Mozart effect and silent sound--and other sensory aids and teaching techniques to activate all the senses for learning-Key for three, but strive for five!. Other learning techniques include Selman’s Universal Method (SUM) of breaking large problems into manageable parts or patches, his MEDICASA model and a platoon system of participatory responses---all demonstrating skills, motor and sensory. Another approach is to have abstract ideas in the sciences translated into physical learning aids, or robotic device, or toys----where the kernel of the analogies can be retained for comprehending different situations in the present, and for future metaphors. Learning can be reinforced in many ways. But learning with-out play is difficult---grim and boring presentations. It may be the major failing of our educa-tional system; especially, as training for persuasive communication skills. This paper asks---What if it were possible to transfer information and improve communication without the circuitous paths of present ways of teaching? What if a teacher could guide a student beyond the normal capacity of his/her mind by "broad-casting" over the natural defense mechanism of the unused 90% of the brain?