We just went skiing, and I, being a complete beginner, watched others for teaching tips. I stood on the bunny hill watching advanced skiers teach beginners. For ever “lesson” I observed, I saw a different teaching style. I expected there were as many learning styles, too.

We can, and should, teach using methods we are comfortable with (while experimenting with others). But, if we want to achieve our learning outcomes we should never forget to take the time to listen to the needs of learners before picking up skies (or pens).

Of course why not take advantage of the alpine location and really get the hands on, practical experience? I can’t argue with that. But, what about the learners’ preferences? Let’s not let the perfect learning environment shroud best teaching practices.

This Canva shows just a limited few of the teaching approaches I saw: