On Castbox.fm — Brandee Laird | Intuitive Instruction
What role does intuition play in effectively teaching and engaging with learners?
Intuition transforms raw knowledge into meaningful teaching experiences.
Information on its own is just… raw data. It’s a what. Experience gives us the why and the how.
~ Brandee Laird (4:00)
The conversation explores the concept of using intuition to improve teaching effectiveness, particularly in the context of Parkour instruction. Brandee Laird highlights how intuition, often dismissed as abstract, is rooted in mindfulness and the ability to notice and interpret subtle cues. She emphasizes that a teacher’s adaptability, based on observations of students’ physical and emotional readiness, outweighs rigid adherence to pre-planned lessons.
The discussion also delves into the balance between knowledge and experience, pointing out that knowledge provides raw data, while experience transforms it into actionable insights. Key practices for fostering intuition, such as meditation and being open to unpredictability, are discussed as critical tools for becoming a more effective instructor.
Takeaways
Mindfulness — A calm and observant mind is essential for noticing subtle cues in students.
Adaptability — Teaching plans should remain flexible to match the needs of learners in real time.
Observation skills — Teachers must focus on facial expressions, body language, and energy levels to gauge readiness and engagement.
Experience vs. knowledge — Information alone is insufficient; lived experiences provide the context and meaning required for effective teaching.
Intuition development — Regularly practicing mindfulness and reflection helps turn observations into automatic, intuitive responses.
Soft skills in instruction — Intuition and empathy are critical for creating impactful learning experiences.
Resources
Parkour Visions — Organization where Brandee Laird has taught for over a decade, fostering innovative approaches to Parkour instruction.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
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