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Learning is enhanced when a state of readiness exists in the students. Readiness is a condition of the heart as well as the mind. The primary difference between Nephi and his older brothers was the softness or hardness of their hearts (see 1 Nephi 2:16,19), and this comes from the influence of the Holy Ghost. Students are also ready to learn when their minds are alert, their attention is focused on the learning experiences, and they are willing to participate in learning.
A teacher can do things that enhance the state of readiness, but this effort is much broader than the teaching methods. Students who know they are loved, respected, and trusted by their teacher are most likely to come to class ready to learn. When students know that their teacher consistently prepares and presents lessons that are interesting, enjoyable, and relevant, they will also be more ready to learn. Most importantly, a teacher needs to remember that it is the Holy Spirit that creates true readiness to learn the gospel. If the teacher is not seeking ways to create the proper spiritual environment and state of readiness, all other techniques and methods will eventually fail in achieving the goal of religious education.
A common mistake teachers make concerning learner readiness is thinking that they only need to be concerned about readiness at the beginning of class. The attention span of students is limited. Readiness to learn rises and falls during each class period. The wise teacher looks for ways to rekindle interest and enthusiasm several times during the class. That is especially important when class periods are held for more than forty or fifty minutes. |
