One, two, three…!

English is not easy, but it is important to learn and conquer.  English will allow you to discover and achieve your global opportunities, make new friends, and explore new worlds.

Many people have some fear of English, and that is normal, however anything of true value is not easy.  In life most things are achieved "step by step," English is the same.  Small steps moving forward will advance you to your goal!   Don't fear, or stress, embrace and enjoy the challenge of learning English.  You can do it!

Franklin D. Roosevelt, American President (1933-1945) said, "There is nothing to fear but fear itself."  Think about this quote for a minute!

Edward Thorndike, a famous American psychologist was a pioneer of educational psychology in the early 20th century.  He developed three basic "laws of learning."

1.       Law of Readiness

Readiness means prepare for action.  Sleep, eat healthy, focus, and set goals.  Most important is your attitude, how you decide to learn English (or any subject) is critical. There are many people that have never taken an English lesson and their English is excellent.  Why?, because of their attitude and taking the right steps!

2.       Law of Exercise

Exercise means frequently practice and repeat whatever you are learning.  Practice makes perfect.  Practice, review, and remember.  What you are studying is not going in and out of your brain, however it takes repetition and it will stay in.

3.        Law of Effect

Effect refers to the idea an individual learns from the consequences of his or her own actions. B.F. Skinner (an American psychologist) expanded on Thorndike’s research and found that continuing positive reinforcement has an impact on successful learning behavior.

People usually respond positively with a reward.  Reward yourself for your hard work and success with something that makes you happy: a piece of yeot (엿), a coffee, or nice dinner and movie with friends.

These are the three laws for learning success.  They may seem simple, but they are effective.  Practice them, think about them, and you will win!

Julius Caesar, (Emperor of Rome, 46-44 BC) said, "Veni, vidi, vici" in English means "I came, I saw, I conquered."

Kai, bai, bo…Fighting!

*Some challenges exist of Thorndike’s laws, however he remains the father of educational psychology.

Dept of. Humanities  Prof. Dwaine Tinling (and Daniel Jex)