Sam TC ch. 9

Sam
Chapter 9 Summary: Good coaching plays a significant role in skill development. Great teaching, though is a skill just like any other and (like all other skills) is obtained through deep practice. Effective teaching requires the ability to properly communicate information that will help a student improve in a way that is customized to the individual student's ability. There are several skills that are necessary to develop in order to become such a teacher. First, a good teacher has a deep and comprehensive knowledge of the subject being taught. This allows the teacher to identify solutions to problems and communicate important information to a student in a way that ensures his/her understanding. Secondly, a good teacher must be perceptive. This allows the teacher to identify problems and also know the student on a deeper level, which influences teaching method and helps it improve. Next, a teacher needs to be effective at giving instructions. Instructions must be direct and concise without being condescending. Finally, a good teacher is one who shows a proper emotional response as a reaction to a students behavior. this is particularly important when a teacher is pointing out errors. The teacher needs to ensure the student is aware of the error and has a desire to fix it. When the problem is eliminated the teacher needs to offer sincere praise. It is also important to note that some skills are developed differently and therefore must be practiced differently. It is the responsibility of the teacher to ensure that the student is practicing in a way that will allow optimal development of the specific skill.
Key Concept: Coaching is a skill that is developed through deep practice. To be a good coach one must have an extensive knowledge of the subject, be perceptive, be effective when giving directions, and exhibit proper emotional response to a student's behavior. A good teacher must also modify teaching method to enable the best possible development for a given talent.
Key Terms: Matrix, Perceptiveness, The GPS Reflex, Theatrical Honesty, Flexible-Circuit Skills, Consistent-Circuit Skills
Making Connections: As a voice teacher I need to spend time and effort in order to acquire the skills of an effective teacher. First of all, I need to learn all I can about music and about the human voice. I need to learn to be perceptive so I can identify problems. I also need to issue concise and specific instruction to help my students improve. Finally, I must help my students know when I am satisfied with their performance and when I am not. All of this is part of customizing my teaching style to meet the needs of each individual student and thus practice effective teaching.