About the Innovation

Rhonda Parker and Shelby Duckworth have developed an innovative approach to corporate training. Their approach uses a variety of tools (including classroom sessions, business simulations, and computer and video-based training) to ensure that information is presented so that all learning styles and preferences are addressed. The sessions incorporate Accelerated Learning Techniques, teamwork, high degrees of participation, business simulation and fun.

Rhonda and Shelby's company, AHz Learning Technologies Inc., is leading the way in Canada, incorporating Accelerated Learning Techniques into corporate training, and they have been sharing these techniques with other companies through Train the Trainer sessions.

Accelerated Learning is widely used in the U.S. and abroad, but not well known in Canada. An International Association was formed recently that links small pockets of practitioners around the world. Accelerated Learning was initially developed as an efficient, stimulating teaching system that reduces training time and increases student retention and the application of information. Don Schuster, Professor of Psychology at Iowa State University found that Accelerated Learning Techniques "produce at least 300% improvement in the speed and effectiveness of learning."

AHz Learning Technologies Inc. was formed in 1996. Prior to that, both Rhonda and Shelby had their own businesses specializing in personal and professional development. An opportunity to work together on a project led them to create a partnership. The core principles behind the training sessions and the strategies for the company evolved out of the belief that the magic and the ability to learn is within everyone, and that it is their role to help people discover it.

About the Innovators

Innovators and business partners Rhonda L. Parker & Shelby L. Duckworth are also sisters. Born in Regina, each is committed to personal development. Rhonda has three children and two grandchildren, while Shelby has four children and one grandchild. Life-long learners, they have re-invented themselves several times, re-purposing their careers.

Though neither Rhonda nor Shelby have university degrees, they have acquired knowledge in their area of specialty through a number of approaches. Rhonda, for example, has studied the process of learning and the way the brain works since 1991. She has attended numerous conferences and workshops. As entrepreneurs developing AHz Learning Technologies Inc., they faced many of the challenges common to women and men starting and building up a business. As a startup company, they lacked financial support and had to reinvest a large portion of their earnings back into the business. Initially, they did a lot of work for free, building up contacts. Now their client list includes major corporations and telecommunication companies across North America.

In developing their innovative corporate training techniques and starting their business, both Rhonda and Shelby say that they have been blessed with the support of their families, of other consultants that they work with, and their clients. Most importantly, though, each has the other as a cheerleader.