How to have fun while learning

That is exactly what happens at a FasTracKids class, which uses an unusual method to teach conventional subjects

From the peals of laughter, it seemed that the children were having a party. But it was actually a FasTracKids class in progress.

They were learning about static electricity. But rather than reading about it in textbooks, they were watching it in action by seeing how their hair stood on edge when they brought a vigorously rubbed balloon close to it. A typical FasTracKids class consists of many such interactive lessons where the children not only learn subjects such as science, maths and geography but also communication, reasoning and leadership skills.

FasTracKids is an enrichment education system for children aged four to eight years. Developed by American educationist, Dr Johann DeBeer, it is designed to provide the right stimuli at the right time to ensure that children achieve their full potential.

The course consists of two-hour lessons once a week spread over 24 months; and children can join the modular course at the beginning of any month. FasTracKids Dubai is located near Capitol Hotel on Al Mina Road.

"Research shows that the first five to six years of a child's life are critical for learning, because during this time, the neurons in his brain are being wired. The course, directed at this age group, integrates creative teaching methods with modern technology and has been successfully tested in many countries," says Wadad Abdul Massih, programme director for Dubai.

"We introduced the programme in Dubai last year and have seen wonderful results. The parents have reported a noticeable improvement in the comprehension, reasoning ability, information processing and communication skills as well as the academic performance of their children," she adds.

Wadad has a degree in child psychology and is a trained teacher with several years of teaching experience. But before embarking on this project, she did a comprehensive FasTracKids training course in Singapore. She has now trained two other teachers with similar backgrounds to assist her.

Wadad explained that FasTracKids provides CD-ROM based 'lessons' on subjects ranging from economics, biology and earth sciences to speech, drama and art, goal setting and life lessons and creativity.

Every class has 16 students, seated in a U-formation around two teachers. The CD-ROM lessons are projected on a white board controlled by touch. Thus the teacher controls the pace of the class, involving the children in discussions on every topic covered in the lesson.

The information is enhanced with fun experiments, role plays or drawing, colouring, cutting and pasting activities. "Keeping in mind that children have short attention spans, we practice educational zigzagging by varying the activity continually," says Wadad.

"The entire course is student centered. During every session we ask the children to talk about different subjects. These talks are recorded on video. Watching themselves on video has helped tremendously to improve their communication skills, self esteem and self confidence," she adds.

Parents can follow their child's progress through the FasTracKids students website, which explains the current month's activities and offers suggestions for extracurricular parental support.