Leonardo da Vinci said, "I learn by teaching." Of all the teaching methodologies, having students teach material to the class or group seems to be one of the most effective. After all, who wants to look like a nut in front of that cute girl or guy in class, making understanding and preparation in the topic essential.
While re-reading Stephen Covey's The 8th Habit, I came across a brilliant but simple idea for helping one's children study and learn material in school - have them teach you what they are learning. They don't actually have to re-teach it to you, but just asking them to share the concepts learned in class will go a long way toward helping them retain what they are learning. Covey says it will also help you bond with your children in the process.
One of the new proponents of this teaching-what-you-are-learning is Chris Biffle, inventor of a technique called Power Teaching. These techniques work from kindergarten through college. Watch Chris on YouTube to get an idea of what Power Teaching is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBeWEgvGm2Y
The Power Teaching website can also be accessed at http://wholebrainteaching.com/. Biffle contends that reteaching using his method engages the whole brain and excites learning.
Why should parents care about any of this? Because ultimately the success of our children depends on good teaching and we are our children's first teachers. During the teen years and beyond we hope that good teachers can reach our children, keeping them engaged and on the path to success. If all else fails, students themselves should know how to teach themselves effectively, having an awareness of their learning styles, intelligence types, and how best to soak up the info for the upcoming test. There are times in life when we are forced to learn for ourselves and knowing how can help.
Melony
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