Michael D. Holloway –

Training & Competency Development

Michael D. Holloway has over 35 years’ experience in industry. Michael started 5th Order Industry 2014 as the independent content development vehicle for competency development and certification preparation classes as well as projects ranging from ghostwriting, technical marketing, DIY articles and building learning management systems.

The 5th Order Industry has emerged as a global pioneer in competency development, revolutionizing the field with its proprietary 5th Order Industry Competency Development Model©. This innovative learning system distinguishes itself by integrating cutting-edge neuroscience research and a heuristic approach to education. At its core, the model capitalizes on the brain’s cognitive pathways, facilitating optimal learning by aligning instructional methods with the neurocognitive processes that underpin critical thinking and skill acquisition. The guided cooperative argumentative dialogue, a hallmark of the system, fosters deep engagement between learners and instructors through continuous questioning. This dialogue draws out implicit assumptions and stimulates analytical thinking, ensuring that learners internalize concepts on a profound level.

A significant aspect of the model is its commitment to tailoring courses to an individual’s unique learning modality. This personalized approach recognizes that people acquire, process, and retain information differently based on their sensory preferences and cognitive strategies. By designing courses that cater to these modalities, 5th Order Industry ensures that learners are equipped to absorb complex concepts effectively, maximizing the retention and application of knowledge. The incorporation of visual, auditory, kinesthetic, reading/writing, and multimodal learning strategies provides an inclusive framework that addresses the diverse needs of a global learner base.

Visual learners, for instance, thrive when information is presented through diagrams, charts, and other graphical tools. The model employs resources like infographics, videos, and written text to ensure these learners can visualize concepts and organize them spatially. Similarly, auditory learners benefit from lectures, group discussions, and recorded material, which the system integrates seamlessly to support learners who process information through listening and verbal communication. By incorporating these modalities, the model ensures an intuitive learning experience tailored to individual strengths.

Kinesthetic learners, who prefer hands-on engagement, find opportunities for experimentation and interactive activities within the model. The inclusion of labs, simulations, and role-playing exercises makes abstract concepts tangible and facilitates learning through doing. For those who excel in traditional academic environments, reading/writing learners, the model provides structured written material like journals, essays, and detailed manuals. These resources enable learners to delve deep into content and synthesize information through self-study and note-taking.

For individuals who blend various learning preferences, the model embraces multimodal learning. This adaptive approach leverages multiple sensory channels, offering integrated lesson plans and multimedia resources that cater to the dynamic needs of multimodal learners. By recognizing that many individuals prefer switching between modalities based on the context, the 5th Order Industry Competency Development Model© ensures maximum flexibility and effectiveness in delivering education.

The practical implications of this model are far-reaching. In education, it empowers teachers and trainers to adopt a variety of methods that accommodate diverse learning styles, enhancing engagement and outcomes. On a personal level, learners gain insight into their cognitive preferences, enabling them to optimize their strategies for absorbing and applying information. For employers, the model serves as a blueprint for designing multimodal training programs that drive workforce development and innovation.

By addressing the nuances of human cognition and providing a learning system that is both comprehensive and personalized, the 5th Order Industry Competency Development Model© sets a new standard in education and professional development. It ensures that learners not only gain certification-ready competencies but also acquire the critical thinking skills necessary for lifelong learning and adaptability in an ever-evolving global landscape.