* The TLRI Principles *

Learning Principles:

National Standards in math, science, and technology have been developed to ensure that future graduates can think critically, solve non-routine problems, and make decisions based on analysis of data. These key learning elements are the foundations upon which TLRI programs are built. The developers of TLRI programs like "Space Explorers" were instrumental in the creation of each of those national standards initiatives.

Students and Employees experience the thrill and understanding of technology through hands-on simulation.

What will they actually learn by performing the tasks in a TLRI program?

They will Learn

*    The critical nature of teamwork
*    The importance of clear and effective communication
*    How to solve read problems in real time, enhancing their critical thinking skills
*    About high technology systems
*    About the detail and complexity of operational systems 

They will Achieve

*    A real goal! --Mastering a high stakes simulation challenge. 

The U.S. Department of Labor has stated that the ability to work effectively in teams is the number one skill needed by members of the future, and current, work force. The Conference Board, a group of top corporate executives, indicated that the most critical and most lacking skills of graduates are communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making. These Learning Principles are the components necessary for teamwork. These skills are more highly desired that knowledge of any academic subject. Positive teamwork instills reliability, dependability, honest, and trust --all values needed in respected employees, particularly in a multi-cultural world.

Through effective Teaming --the outcome of Learning Principles-- participants learn how to form a team and work effectively in a team environment. Teaming is a life skill that teachers and other educators can integrate as an exciting new approach to the classroom learning environment. Beyond "cooperative learning," teaming involves process observation and evaluation --skills essential for today's astronauts and for tomorrow's leaders. In the "Space Explorers" program, for example, teachers in cooperation with their students experience a true teaming environment in an exciting developmental way, and enjoy the effects of this powerful approach to learning.

Teachers and instructional leaders who embrace Learning Principles in their classroom find that discipline and organization is easy to maintain. Motivation increases and students and employees self-image improves. Teaching to, and working with, teams, and having those teams enforce concepts with other team members is effective and enjoyable.