Paradigm Learning’s Discovery Learning Approach

Research has demonstrated that people learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process. Over the years, “discovery learning” has been proven to appeal to all types of learners as it accelerates knowledge and skill acquisition and ensures long-term retention.

Paradigm Learning has developed its own unique discovery learning methodology and techniques to apply to the development of games, simulations and Discovery Maps® for its corporate clients.

The Discovery Learning Benefits Are Clear:

  • Training time is condensed
  • Programs are fun, fast paced and energizing
  • Participants absorb course content via active participation
  • Sessions are highly customizable
  • Retention is high

How Does Discovery Learning Work? Take a Look!
 

Attract & Intrigue * Jump-start * Brain-churn * Discover & Conclude * Bridge & Connect

Attracting and Intriguing

First, we grab the learner's attention with sounds, visuals, power openings, game boards and more. The learner’s response:

     "Hey…I'm interested in learning."

Jump-Starting

Next, we give participants just enough information to get the experience started.

     "OK, I'm ready to learn."

Brain-churning = Learning

Guided small-team activities get learners thinking, doing, analyzing and questioning.

     "Wow…I wonder why…if…how…?"

Discovering and Concluding

Participants discuss ideas, draw conclusions and develop insights.

     "Ah-ha, I get it!”

Bridging and Connecting

Learners transfer the experiences and insights to real workplace issues and bridge to follow-up action on the job.

     "Now I know what to do, so I plan to…”

Paradigm Learning’s discovery learning techniques

When we build a discovery learning-based program, we choose design techniques that work best to meet specific learning objectives, content and facilitation requirements. These may be...

Stories

"You've just bought a company!" "The CEO has just formed a project team and you're on it." Whatever the story, learners get "hooked" right from the start. Stories also help the learning "stick" over time. 
   
Engaging Visuals

Large, full-color Discovery Maps, game boards or wall visuals intrigue learners, make them want to learn, and provide graphically interesting clues and metaphors that help speed discovery. 
 
Small-Team Activities

A table team environment gives people a "we're in this together" sense of commitment to the learning and encourages active participation. A natural environment for team building is created, providing an added benefit of our learning designs.
 
Simulated Situations

Simulations replicate a slice of “reality” from the workplace. They are time compressed and “safe” so that learners can make mistakes and learn from them without real-world consequences. 
 
Maps and Models

Maps and models used in our programs help imprint critical content information during the learning experience and provide a take away reinforcement tool for ongoing retention.
 
Gaming Techniques

Chips, cards, game pieces, dice, timers and more. There's nothing like a little fun and competition to keep people focused on learning! 

The great news is that discovery learning techniques appeal to all generational learning styles — from traditionalists to baby boomers to Generation X and Y’ers, to millennials.

Tap into the power of discovery to make your learning more fun; memorable; and, most of all, effective.

 

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