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Hi Gordy,
Getting caught up on the threads. Had a new baby boy the 15th of
May so things are kind of hectic at the moment. Thought of a
couple of things since reading many of the threads. The direct
instruction article was interesting in the Loop. I think it has its
place for some examples. However, I find it more efficient at times to
have an intro when teaching really large classes (like the college
programs of 25-30 students). The efficiency of not saying something
over 30 times to every student is quite draining, hence I find it more
productive to hit the important concepts to all then get them casting.
These types of programs last a full semester so I tend to be with
Scott's message in wanting all of the students to learn to self
diagnose. Then they can have a passion of casting for a lifetime.
Another example, last week I had 3 lessons on specialty fishing
casts during the week. If I used only direct instruction there is no
way they would be repeat clients at $140.00 per hour. I feel like when
someone has a great desire to learn and are paying that kind of money
they had better have many things to go away with from the lesson.
Hence, I think really good instructors tailor on a case by case
scenario for every lesson. You can read it so easily from person to
person by watching their eyes, body language, etc.. to get a feel what
they may handle. Neuro-linguistic programming is worth a read for that
kind of thing.
As Jim pointed out, it becomes more of a challenge when 2 or more
have very different needs bundled into the same lesson. Good job Jim
breaking it down to serve both needs!
As instructors, we already know what the student needs to fish
really well. This at times may vary with their goals (because often
times the student is not sure what they need). If we just turn them
loose flailing away without discussing some layout issues I can assure
you it will be quite ugly taking them to the stream because they are
not prepared. I am not a fan of "cookie cutter" approaches
for teaching. All teaching days, demos, etc.. become tailored to the
type of audience you may have (case by case basis).
The US team is fishing Scotland this week. Three of those
members I have worked with off and on for over 15 years now. How would
this direct instruction have helped them? If I would have turned
them loose and said nothing to address layouts, hauling, shooting
line, tying, loop planes, line management, etc... Hopefully
something we say, gets them interested enough for a spark of
enthusiasm to search a bit more. We all continue to learn
new things in casting with this "what if" approach.
Good to hear from everybody and hope you all are getting a chance
to wet a fly some these days.
Cheers, Mac
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Mac... CONGRATULATIONS on
the new addition to your family !
I agree with you on Jim's
answer.
We have just started our yearly POON
FEST. Ten anglers as my guests, 5 flats skiffs, a week of tarpon
fishing with some bonefishing and permit thrown in. Lots of
dinner stories, etc.
Gordy |