The Learning Revolution

The Learning Revolution by Gordon Dryden and Dr Jeannette Vos is a record selling book with a strap line of "To change the way the world learns". To say it is a popular book might be an understatement when you consider that it sold over 7.5 million (yes 7.5 million) copies in China in 25 weeks. So what is it about and why is it so popular? Well, let me quote the publisher from the preface to the book:

"The Co-author's message is simple, graphic and of overwhelming importance:

• We live at the start of history's most profound revolution
• We now know how to store all humanity's combined knowledge and wisdom, and make it instantly available to almost anyone on earth.
• We need a learning revolution to match the revolution in instant communication - and that revolution is well under way.
• Every family, school or business can take advantage of this new age of networked intelligence.

This book shows how."

And believe me this book does show you how. It begins with a look at the 16 major trends (including the age of instant communication, the new age of leisure, internet commerce and learning and women in leadership) that will shape tomorrow's world and then looks at the 13 steps needed for the 21^st Century learning society. All good books on learning should give you an understanding of how your brain functions and certainly The Learning Revolution is no exception as it dedicates a whole section on the subject. Following on from that it looks at how you can learn more effectively and covers a variety of techniques and strategies ranging from the use of Accelerated Learning principles to the application of Mind Mapping and Memory Pegs. There is a great section on creativity but my favourite sections are those giving advice on "Producing better, brighter babies" and "How to enrich your child's intelligence from birth to ten". These two sections are packed with useful and simple advice on how we can nurture and stimulate the intelligent growth of our children. There is a wonderful extract from Diane Looman's "Full Esteem Ahead" (Published by Kramer, Tuburton, California) which says:

" If I had my child to raise all over again,

I'd finger paint more, and point the finger less.

I'd do less correcting and more connecting.

I'd take my eyes off my watch and watch with my eyes.

I would care to know less and know to care more.

I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.

I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.

I'd run through more fields and gaze at more stars.

I'd do more hugging and less tugging.

I would be firm less often and affirm much more.

I'd build self esteem first, and the house later.

I'd teach less about the love of power,

And more about the power of love.

The rest of the book looks at teaching and learning in schools and the impact of The Learning Revolution on businesses.

There are a number of things that I like about this book. It puts into a global context the need to become an effective learner and then, in a very effective manner it shows you how. It also gives real life examples of the success of the techniques and strategies described and shows how the techniques are pertinent to individuals and organisations whether they be involved in education or business. However the main reason I like this book is that it is based on the combined extensive research of both authors who give us an unbiased view on what works and why it works.

Whether you are a student at school, college or university, a teacher of under 5 year olds, a first time expectant mother, a concerned parent of teenage children, a professional looking to update their skills or the CEO of a large multi-national corporation, this book will contain something of use to you. This is definitely a book you should have on your bookshelf.

The Learning Revolution by Gordon Dryden and Dr Jeannette Vos is available from good bookstores, real and virtual - ISBN Number is 1-929284-00-4.

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