In my previous blog I looked at how effective you can be as a teacher when working in groups. It was part of my introduction to a free online seminar that you can join here on building a successful practice.

Previously I asked: Is group teaching even ethical given the importance of “experience” in our learning model?

This question could be applied today to the idea of giving lessons on Skype. However, group teaching is my focus, so more about that…

Back in the day when I was training in London during the 70s, group teaching was considered a cheaper, lower grade version of learning Alexander's discovery. Some people still think this way. This wisdom is premised on the idea that giving pupils’ an experience is king: what you are teaching is a sensation.

I agree - when your primary means of education is first to deliver an exceptional experience, then prolonged physical contact with a pupil is pretty much essential. This in turn leads to a world of “hands on” and intensive one on one teaching.

"Your own body is a phantom, one that your brain has constructed purely for convenience."
V. S. Ramachandran

Last week in BodyChance, a woman wanted to explore bending.

It seemed like a simple activity. Even a little boring if I'm honest. Ho hum.

All about understanding the use of your legs: bending hips, knees and ankles. Blah, blah. She was interested, because when she bends, she hurts her back. She wanted to find an easier way. In her mind, this was a "physical" activity, not a "mental" one.

"What's the situation?" I asked.

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It's been a long time since my last blog, and that is mainly because I have been devoting my time to helping individuals who are already in ATSuccess. I am really excited about what is happening, and boldly predict that this new generation of teachers can reshape the way our profession thinks about itself.

This is the text of a letter I wrote recently to a friend who wondered why I seem to actively offend so many people in the AT world with my position on Tablework. This is what I wrote back...

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Dear Friend (who shall remain anonymous),

The tablework/constructive rest thing is an important component of my whole sales and marketing thrust - the idea is to do what the students wants, not what you prescribe.

Anyone could copy what I have done in Japan. Why doesn't anyone do that?

Because it is too dam hard. Right now, I am planning on building a new biz in Japan and I constantly go into overwhelm: How will I do it? Who do I ask for help? How do I convince people about my idea? These are all questions that seek answers, and while in the midst of asking these questions, I easily become emotionally frightened and panicked.

People ask me: why am I so against tablework, hands-on practise and teaching individually?

Good question.

I ask it to my Self often, because it appears I am against the flow of an entire profession. All three of these are revered and valued, yet here I am stating unequivocally that I do not support this vision of our work.

No wonder I get attacked.

I don't see it as attack though, I see it as people defending their own position. Fair enough. What else can you do when someone (like me) appears to be undermining all that you hold valuable in your work?

Recently, I felt I wasn't doing enough for you all in ATSuccess Basic, and then it was time to post this summary of my answers to your questions for the last two weeks… 2,420 words.

Hummm...

That is 200 words of advice on your questions every day: I'd say that's enough. What do you think?

For those not in my ATSuccess group - here's a sampling of the encouragement and advice you can have access to. Not just any marketing program - a program full of Alexander Technique teachers who really get it. Maybe it's time for you to join?

Many of you have embraced Facebook advertising, seeking out your avatars and actually having fun finding people who love to be your students, before they even know it. Amazing!

To-day's blog is a basic primer, mixing together different concepts I've already covered, but putting them all together in a simple road map to manage your learning curve to greater understanding, skill and joy.