Improving teaching over time
Found in: Teaching and Teacher Training
Ruth P., North Carolina
One thing I love about starting a new group is a chance for me to “do it better”. To put more emphasis on things I might have glossed over previously. I have a couple of adult beginning classes and I am using keypads more than I ever have before during class. I love that it is a common sight to see three or four people with a keypad playing along with the person at the piano! I am trying to develop a culture where using the keypad is ‘normal’. One student today told me she was going to Spain, but that she’ll be taking her keypad.
I am also doing a much better job encouraging them to keep the playlist alive by having fun ways to review the foundation pieces. I have them play by themselves, play duets with me, play duets with each other, play along with the audio, play with iReal Pro for a “band” experience, have them check their playlist if they can play it, have them check and circle the check, if they can play it without any assistance and in front of someone else, etc. I think the key to the playlist is making review interesting. I’m grateful for multiple opportunities to become a better teacher. Love this method!
Stephen R., California
I didn’t use keypads when I started because I had a small studio, but I sure do now! Really critical for groups!
Jacqui G., Canada
Whatever the studio size, the keypad is an important tool because it “sets aside the listening process” and forces the student to focus on shapes and patterns alone. I like to break up the group into pairs of threesomes and send them to the table to work out patterns together, while I focus on one or two people on the piano. Such fun to see them helping each other! A real community-building activity too.
Laurie Richards, Nebraska
I couldn’t agree more, Ruth! Every time I start a new group, even after 14 years, I try to refine and improve how I deliver different conversations, requirements, and songs. There is always room for improvement.