How Do We Learn - The 5 Basic Principles of Learning

From the time we are born, one of the mostinstructor can help students to become ready by
important mental functions we perform is learning.letting them know the importance of the concept
As a toddler, we learn to walk and to speak.they are learning, its relevance in their lives, and
When we start school, we master the alphabet,the benefits they can get from learning it.
learn to make friends, and start acquiring writing3. The Learn What is Relevant Principle: It is easier
skills. We then continue to learn various subjects,to learn content that is meaningful and relevant to
mastering a few, performing just adequately atus than something that is irrelevant. For example,
many while failing spectacularly at some subjects.if you are learning to drive, it would make sense
Why do we perform brilliantly at some subjectsto learn basic maintenance jobs, like changing the
and fail miserably at others? How exactly do weoil. However, learning the whole theory behind
learn? You can find the answers to thesehow the car engine works would be of no use.
questions and more by understanding the 5 basic4. The Learn by Association Principle: It is easier
principles of learning.to start with something we know before
proceeding to related, but new tasks. For
1. The Learn by Doing Principle: Ever heard thatexample, when learning to draw, it is more
experience is the best teacher? What it basicallyeffective to start with simple line drawings that
means is that the best way to learn something iswe know and gradually build up to new and more
by actually doing or experiencing it. A goodchallenging drawing styles.
teacher or training program therefore uses5. The Learn by Reinforcing Principle: Repetition
learner involvement tools, such lab exercises,helps in retaining and recalling what we have
fieldwork, hands-on training, group discussion, rolelearned. Repetition reinforces a concept or skill in
playing, and audio visual aids.our minds. You must have seen the summaries,
2. The Learn When You Are Ready Principle: Thequestions, and diagrams in books. That's what
best time for learning is when we feel ready andthey do. They reinforce.
motivated to learn. If you are not motivatedKeep the above principles in mind while designing
enough, chances are you'll work half-heartedly. Ifany type of learning. These principles will definitely
you're motivated, you'll find something new toincrease the effectiveness of your learning
learn in whatever kind of job you do, which canproduct.
ultimately help you achieve your career goals. An