My most memorable experience was when I took my first art class. The teacher was not a teacher by profession. He was an artist who opened a studio and started giving workshops. My lesson was individual and I set my own time schedule. He suggested coming in once a week but I wanted to have more intensive sessions so I asked for three times a week, 4 hours a day. I often stayed longer than 4 hours! He was flexible. He worked with what seemed to be right for me and adjusted his plan accordingly. He didn't seem to have a set plan as we started. Or so I felt. Somehow at the end of the first 4 sessions I managed to complete a whole painting. There wasn't an assessment to get a certificate. I would get one only if I asked my teacher and he'd ask me if I feel I deserve one. I would have to justify my stand.
What I most remember about this experience is that I felt proud of myself. It felt good to wake up early in the morning even though it was during the summer holiday and battle the traffic to get to the studio. I often continued working on my art piece late at night.
I think this teacher was able to work on a different level to motivate his students. He had no deadlines, no assessed tasks, and worked with what seems to be ok with the students themselves. He wouldn't push anyone to go further unless if they are ready and willing to do so. I felt in charge of my learning. Still when I needed his help he was there to provide it in the exact manner that I needed it. I was in charge of my learning and he was providing the tools. Below is my first painting...
Its actually amazing how often students pinpoint the teacher for being the sole reason they enjoyed the course or learnt more than their potential. We, as educators, should understand that we hold this special power that can elevate the students learning experience to a much higher level.
ReplyDeleteAnd as they said in Spiderman the movie, "with great powers come great responsibilities".