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Learning in a wider sense is to change ourselves through intentional experience. Any subject we learn can change the way we see the world, and the way we see ourselves. Then, how are we actually learning? Both as an Alexander Technique teacher & music teacher, this has been the most interesting topic for me. I am interested in both so-called " talented" & "non-talented" pupils.
As for "non-talented" pupils, I always wonder why he/she cannot do this or that. Some of the tasks I ask my pupils seem so basic, yet some people cannot do it. The reason might be because the way I ask the pupil does not appeal to them. Or because what I think is basic might not be basic for them. Or because the pupil might be interested in something else, and not to be able to pay attention to what I say. Or they might be interpreting my words very differently. There must be a lot of elements.
As for "talented" pupils, I sometimes wonder how he/she can perform so well. Some of my skills have been developed through many years of hard work, yet some of the "talented" pupils can just do the same thing instantly. What is the thinking process in this person? How can one avoid struggling to achieve it? I often try to learn how such pupils work.
The thing is that every pupil has two sides--- a "talented" & "non-talented" side. Winning & Failure in one person. But rather than being arrogant or having low-self esteem, we can change a lot about ourselves through learning about ourselves. How they integrate their skills or "inability" into their life to live fully is a part of the learning process, too. Learning should have some meaning in life, I think.
Making an effort wisely (---learning) is not a waste of time. If one tries and spends a lot of time without success, one will know deeply that the way one has been trying is not effective, whereas if one makes no effort and spends no time, one cannot know what is not effective.
People want to gain things in life & succeed, of course. And we should aim to gain something with learning!! But making an effort whole-heartedly itself often gains something more valuable than getting a result!! And I would like to assist in that process as a teacher. And through learning about pupils' learning processes, I am improving my teaching skills, and am also gaining something valuable in my life, too!!
Good learning requires a two-way communication between pupil & teacher. So, as a teacher, I have to take half the responsibility in the lesson. And, not to mention, half of the responsibility is yours as a pupil!!
Are you ready to learn??
