I struggle learning? I struggled learning how to read and spell in elementary school. I struggled learning how to land an airplane (but after much study and practice, I finally got it). As an airline pilot, I struggled learning systems of new airplanes and would have to study longer and harder than everyone in my class. I struggled to enjoy sparring as a young Orange Belt new to sparring in karate. And now I am struggling to learn more advanced Jujitsu skills.
Sometimes I wonder if my learning struggles are a result of my learning characteristics or my teacher's failure to teach effectively. Or maybe a little of both. I know I learn slightly different than the majority. As I reflect, I realize I definitely pick and choose my instructors whenever I can. If an instructor fails to be able to modify, adapt to a learner, or teach multiple ways, then I struggle. When my own money is paying for that instructor, then I find an instructor that works for me. In the past when I haven't had the chance to choose my instructor than I have dug deep and used the martial arts principle of Perseverance (or was it me being stubborn). Either way, maybe this is why Perseverance is my favorite principle.
I could go on about my learning struggles for a long time, but instead, let me tell you that I get it.
I GET IT if you struggle to learn.
I GET that not everyone learns the same.
I GET that as an instructor I can't just teach one size fits all.
I GET that I need to tailor my teaching style for you.
Maybe all my struggles in learning are the reason why I imaged I would be a teacher when I was a young kid.
Maybe that is why I completed the process to become a Certified Martial Arts Instructor (under ACMA).
Maybe that is why I became a Certified Master Aviation Instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI, AGI, MCFI).
Maybe that is why I went to school to learn about teaching and completed my Master's Degree in Education (M.Ed).
If you are struggling to learn in one of my classes that I am teaching, please let me know. I will take the time to figure out how you learn best.
Here are some links about learning styles:
How to Tie Your Belt
The first thing students say to me after I award them their White Belt is, "I don't know how to tie this on." "That...
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"Sifu, What Style of Martial Arts do we Practice?" Occasionally, I get asked about the origin of our style. Or a student will as...
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What is up with the current stigma that teaching Martial Arts to kids will encourage them to fight? I am consistently hearing parents say ...
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This picture shows some of the benefits your kids will develop through their martial arts training with us. It is easy to say our progr...