What Is a Super Learner?
A super learner is a Golden that knows how to learn. By experiencing natural consequences, the forces of cause and effect, and trial-and-error learning, a puppy gains the skills he needs to know to become a dog that can think and problem-solve. It is very exciting to train a dog that can think and make choices for himself. In this style of learning, the dog takes some responsibility for his part in the learning process. This leaves the trainer free to shape and reinforce what is going right.
Super learners have the skills of learning down pat and are ready to solve whatever puzzle you dream up. These dogs are easy to train and have a long attention span. They don't tire or give up easily, which means they can be coaxed into staying in the game long after their appetite for treats has gone. Super learners can elaborate on a concept. They often jump ahead and solve the riddle before you are even done with the exercise. These dogs are amazing to watch, since they are truly communicating with their trainers and giving volumes of information back to the handler about what they need to grasp the concept.
Creating a super learner involves lots of training sessions and practice in teaching your dog the skills of learning how to learn. These skills involve shaping each behavior by breaking it down into many small teachable steps that the dog performs toward the end goal.
The process of shaping is what creates a super learner. It takes lots of practice and sharp observation skills to develop good shaping skills. The ability to break things down into parts is the key to mastering this concept and becoming a great trainer. The sooner you teach your puppy about shaping, and the sooner you both become proficient at it, the quicker your puppy will become a super learner.
Super learners are dogs that are fun to be around and train. These are dogs with tons of confidence. They love to figure things out, and they are never hard to motivate. They love the joy of playing the clicker-training game and are partners in their own learning. Often labeled intelligent, willing, or high in energy or drive, they are simply dogs that know how to learn. They have the confidence that comes from knowing that they can make choices without fear of being punished — they know instead that they can expect feedback about what behavior causes desired results. Super learners know that making choices and offering behavior is the game, and they are not afraid to approach life with tails up!
