Posted by: Zombie Zero
Fun teaching methods - 09/30/05 02:00 PM
This one is for the instructors out there...
What are some of the unusual/unique/entertaining teaching methods that you use? To clarify, here's my example:
Many of my students had trouble with the front stance, keeping their stance too narrow. (about half of shoulder width apart) I was correcting stances over and over again.
Finally, I came up with a way to show them why (instead of just telling them why) they need a wider front stance. I had all the students form a circle around the classroom, facing outward. (So they couldn't see each other). I then had them step out with one foot, so it was in line with the other, as though they were walking a tightrope.
I walked around the inside of the circle, and as I passed each student, I pushed them lightly on the shoulder with one finger. Sure enough, every single one of them lost their footing and balance. Some nearly fell down.
Next, I did the same exercise, only this time, I put them all in good solid front stances. I pushed harder, and nobody lost their footing.
This way, I was able to illustrate the need for wider footing, and most of my students have improved their front stances greatly.
I like to use tricks like this to keep the class interesting and fun, while still teaching a valuable lesson.
I'd like to hear about similar methods you use.
What are some of the unusual/unique/entertaining teaching methods that you use? To clarify, here's my example:
Many of my students had trouble with the front stance, keeping their stance too narrow. (about half of shoulder width apart) I was correcting stances over and over again.
Finally, I came up with a way to show them why (instead of just telling them why) they need a wider front stance. I had all the students form a circle around the classroom, facing outward. (So they couldn't see each other). I then had them step out with one foot, so it was in line with the other, as though they were walking a tightrope.
I walked around the inside of the circle, and as I passed each student, I pushed them lightly on the shoulder with one finger. Sure enough, every single one of them lost their footing and balance. Some nearly fell down.
Next, I did the same exercise, only this time, I put them all in good solid front stances. I pushed harder, and nobody lost their footing.
This way, I was able to illustrate the need for wider footing, and most of my students have improved their front stances greatly.
I like to use tricks like this to keep the class interesting and fun, while still teaching a valuable lesson.
I'd like to hear about similar methods you use.