Micro-Training # 26

Illustrate

In order for students to feel the edifying influence of the Holy Ghost in their learning experience, they should be “in a preparation to hear the word” (Alma 32:6). The scriptures speak of a state of preparation or readiness in the hearts and minds of those seeking spiritual learning.

For example, Ezra, a priest and scribe in the Old Testament, “prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it” (Ezra 7:10). The book of Acts describes faithful Saints who “received the word with all readiness of mind” (Acts 17:11). During His visit to the people of Nephi, the Savior encouraged them: “Prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again” (3 Nephi 17:3).

A student can prepare to learn in a variety of ways, including:

• Praying for revelation

• Developing a desire to learn

• Repenting

• Studying

• Responding to questions that focus on what they will be studying in class

• Being willing to contribute

• Coming prepared to teach others

Perhaps the most important preparation students can make is their daily gospel living. As you demonstrate how they discover truth and center their lives on Jesus Christ and His gospel, you can help students become more self-reliant learners.

Quote from our Church leaders:

Invitation to act

Meditate on what you have learned today. Then think about what you are already doing and what more you can do to help your students “prepare their hearts to seek,” prepare to “receive the word with all readiness of mind,” or “prepare their minds.” You could share your ideas and experiences with other teachers.

To practice your skills on this subject, you can do the following exercises:

• Skill: Resist the tendency to respond to every comment and question and invite the class to respond.

• Skill: Focus on what the learner can do in class that the teacher typically does.