3.19.2015

In the words of Alfred Mercier, "What we learn with pleasure, we never forget." In the context of this class, though, perhaps this belief can go both ways—for learning and for teaching. 

Last Thursday's three-way teaching activity was quite an enriching experience for me. I chose to teach my learner some basic Origami. While the steps themselves were easy enough to follow, communicating them was the key to an effective teaching session. I kept that in mind as I walked my learner through the process, making use of demonstrations, pre-made models, and verbal instructions. Afterwards, my group mate, an observer, critiqued my performance, relaying both good points and areas for improvement. She, in turn, received advice on her critique methods from my initial learner. This cycle was repeated until each member of the group experienced teaching and relaying feedback.

I admit that I’m not the most eloquent person when it comes to instructing others. More often than not, I need to repeat myself several times before I’m understood. Curiously enough, the words came easily to me on that day. I suppose it was because my learner was of the well population, or that I was both passionate and learned in the skill I wanted to teach. I could say the same for how I observed and advised my peers. At that time, Alfred Mercier’s words never rang truer. 

It’s a bit too soon to imagine, but I’m looking forward to the day that I can feel the same about my future practice. I’ve realized that technical skills alone won’t cut it in the physical therapy field, and that you need the heart and the patience to teach others, especially those with communication difficulties. That place is a little far off right now; nonetheless, it’s where I want to be.