Instructing Tips

Non-verbal Communication. While instructing, much of your communication is non-verbal. Make eye contact with as many individuals as possible so it seems as if you are speaking directly to them. Touch students in a caring professional manner to move an arm, hand, etc. into the correct position. This shows students you are personally concerned about them. Demonstrate techniques slowly. Use your hands freely. Use broad gestures so the student in the back of the class may see your meaning. 

Be Tough, Be Caring. When dealing with students on an interpersonal level, sometimes you must be tough, sometimes you must be caring. Sometimes you start in the tough mode to get your point across, and, as the student begins to understand your point, you switch to the caring mode to express your concern with their welfare. You should challenge the superior performer with tough criticism and encourage the marginal performer with caring praise.

Simple to Complex. Start students with a simple explanations of a technique, why the technique is used, and the reason why the technique is better than another technique in the situation. As students become more proficient, give more detailed explanations that point out the subtleties. With advanced students, it is sometimes necessary to reemphasize the basics. 

Minor Improvements. When working with an awkward student who is having difficulty with a technique, try to get at least some improvement in one area. Praise the student for the improvement and then try for some improvement in another area. Eventually, it is possible that the student will perform the technique as well as other students.