Empowering Students Through Accelerated Learning

[Note: This article is written primarily for educators; however, parents can glean valuable insights, as well, particularly in terms of how a student's homework/study area can be made more conducive to effective learning. It is also worth noting that Accelerated Learning is at the root of the Quantum Learning methods we developed for and use at SuperCamp.]

Background

Developed in the mid-1970's, Accelerated Learning is based on the work of Dr. Georgi Lozanov, a professor with a specialty in psychiatry and psychotherapy from Bulgaria, now living in Austria. His early program focused on learning a foreign language that included relaxation, visual arts, and music. It produced noteworthy results. Students learned from one hundred to one thousand new vocabulary words a day with ninety-eight percent retention or better. The potential seemed limitless.

At the root of Lozanov's work is the idea that suggestions can and do affect the outcome of learning. Some of the ways to reinforce learning are: creating a positive environment, using music, active and passive concert readings, posters and artifacts, increasing active individual participation, and having a well trained teacher in the use of these methods. Numerous variants and syntheses of Lozanov's original work are now applied to all subjects and referred to as Accelerated Learning.

Description 

Accelerated Learning can be defined as empowering students to learn faster, more effectively and with more joy. Research shows that accelerated learning techniques can enhance retention and performance, and that students who use accelerated learning methods become more effective learners. Content becomes more meaningful and is remembered longer.

Accelerated Learning programs are geared toward teaching the whole person. They are multifaceted, encompassing a wide variety of creative methods and techniques based on current theories and research of how people learn best. It embraces the theory of multiple intelligences, learning styles, neurosciences and cognitive psychology. Important components include the emotional state of the learner, respect for learning differences, the use of music, a positive, safe and joyful atmosphere, stimulating and nurturing surroundings, physical movement, interactive projects, and games. Included in the teaching frame is the use of powerful motivation, activations, metaphors, imagery, peer teaching, demonstrations, review, and celebration.

Accelerated Learning is a synthesis of many methods and techniques. The power comes in the orchestration of how these methods and techniques come together to create effective, meaningful and joyful learning.

Elements 

Accelerated Learning incorporates the use of music, art and color as well as a focus on the physical environment, emotional atmosphere, languaging and more.