Navigating a Learning Curve

Recently my husband changed his insulin pump. Learning the new process has been quite a learning curve. What we've learned is that the more times he repeats the process, the more adept he is becoming.

The definition of a learning curve is that there is a correlation between a learner's performance on a task and the number of attempts required to complete the task.

This experience got me thinking about how we can support children/students when they are confronted with a new task or goal.

I think it is important to provide a positive environment; one that encourages asking questions and provides constructive feedback. Learning a new skill takes time and effort. Mistakes should be seen as an opportunity to learn and grow. I prefer to divide larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to make them seem less daunting.

Not everyone learns a new skill the same way. There are 4 main learning styles:
1. Visual Learners prefer when information is presented through sight such as diagrams, charts and videos.
2. Auditory Learners learn best by listening through lectures, discussions or recordings.
3. Reading/Writing Learners prefer to learn by reading information and writing through textbooks, manuals, articles and making notes.
4. Kinesthetic/Tactile Learners learn best through physical activity and hands-on experiences.

When I teach Mah Jongg, I use all 4 learning styles:

I provide participants with multiple sheets of the rules to read (Reading/Writing). I show them how the game is played by actually playing all hands (Visual) and explaining step-by-step along the way (Auditory). By the second lesson, the participants begin to play themselves (Kinesthetic/Tactile). By the 4th lesson, they know how to play!