Connecting the Dots

BY JOHN EISENHAUER PSIA/AASI-NW COMMUNICATIONS VP  

Filling in the blanks, bridging the gap, connecting the dots. All phrases we use on a daily basis to describe our efforts to clarify, communicate and make sense of the task at hand. When we use these types of phrases, it’s understood that at least one of the parties involved knows what “the dots” are and has some idea of how to connect them. However, unless we are talking to ourselves, there will always be at least one other person involved. The reality is; in our interactions with others, there is often quite a gap between our understanding of “the dots”, our ideas about how to connect them and their understanding and ideas.

Sounds a lot like teaching, doesn’t it? People come to us with a certain level of understanding and ideas about what needs to be done. Take for example, the young first time skier who insists on putting their knees together in a wedge. We haven’t taught them that, in fact, we’ve done everything we can think of not to. Then, they wave at their parents, shouting proudly, “See Mommy and Daddy, I’m doing it just like you said!” Hard to argue with Mom and Dad. Now you realize you and your student had a very different understanding of “the dots” and how to connect them. This realization becomes the key to success in your lesson if you learn to use it.

The opportunity now presents itself to acknowledge the students’ level of understanding, their motivation and their approach. These are seldom random. They are usually purposeful and strong guides to how they learn. Often we start a lesson by asking students to show us what they do. To strengthen that visual assessment, ask your student to tell you what they are trying to do. Now you are creating a process, so you can both truly understand not only what they “are doing”, but “what they are intending to do.” With this starting point, you can begin to connect the dots.

For this to be successful, you need to have knowledge as well as communication skills. That’s where training comes in. Whether that training comes from your TD, the division, peers, educational materials or indeed students, it’s critical to you and your students’ success. So, take advantage of the training opportunities that are available to you. Learn as much as you can. The sense of accomplishment and power that knowledge will give you makes what we do so much more rewarding. You’ll say to yourself, “Wow, that was easy and fun!” But, all of us know, it’s the hard journey you took up to that point that made “connecting the dots” possible.

We hope the teaching articles in this issue will prove valuable to you and that you will take the opportunity to come and learn with us this season!