Violin Video Lesson: Reactions mean a lot...

For some teachers, their focus is on telling students what to do. And for some students, it's simply about doing what they're told. But I think a teacher best serves the students' interests by guiding them to discover their own path and exploring different ways to achieve that vision.

So with that in mind, let's try something.

Imagine you're in a lesson and after weeks of hard work, you finally play the passage just like you wanted to for your teacher.

Now all that's left is to find out how your teacher will react.

I'm so glad you finally understood what I've been saying.

Well, at first, this might sound fine, but think about it. This reaction shifts the focus to the teacher's explanation rather than your hard work. It kind of implies that the teacher's perspective is central, which could undermine your ownership of the breakthrough.

And the word finally, well, it sort of comes across as impatient or dismissive, as if you took too long to get there.

Well, look at you. You're catching on.

This reaction is a bit more encouraging, but sounds a little patronizing.

Saying catching on sort of feels like faint praise, as though you're only just starting to catch on.

Saying this puts you in a position where you're not able to fully own what you've just accomplished.

That's what I've been trying to tell you all along.

Again, this shifts the focus back to the teacher's explanation rather than your effort.

It risks making you feel like your success simply validates their teaching instead of acknowledging your hard work.

And in a way, it sets you up to have a need to rely on them forever.

Well, how'd you do that? You reluctantly answer, and then the teacher says, That's so smart.

This reaction emphasizes your thought process and effort. It encourages you to reflect on how you succeeded.

By saying, That's so smart, the teacher affirms your creativity and problem -solving abilities.

It boosts confidence and reinforces that the achievement is yours.

So which reaction would you hope to have from your teacher? For me, that last reaction makes me feel like I figured it out. And that sense of accomplishment gives me the confidence to go work even harder.

Asking, How'd you do that? encourages me to analyze my success and learn from it, reinforcing a growth mindset.

This kind of reaction makes me feel heard and respected.

It doesn't deliver a judgment, but instead shows genuine interest in my perspective.

And saying, Wow, that simply fills me with pride in what I've just achieved.

But hold on. When I think about it, do I really need my teacher to ask me how I did it and then tell me how what I did was so smart? Maybe not.

But it does bring a big smile to my face, even though honestly, I think I just got played.

Nonetheless, it's a reminder to me that the best teachers aren't just guiding you. They're on the journey with you, giving you the space you need to let the outcome truly be yours.

Automatic video-to-text transcription by DaDaScribe.com

Thank you for your comment, question or request!

Comment/Question deleted successfully.

Post a comment, question or special request:

Comments or questions must be between 3 and 10,000 characters long.

You may: Login  or  

Otherwise, fill out the form below to post your comment:

Add your name below:


Add your email below: (to receive replies, will not be displayed or shared)


For verification purposes, please enter the word MUSIC in the field below

---