TEACHING AS CONNECTION
by Sara Naumann
I started rubber stamping as a hobby decades ago , before the internet and online workshops provided instruction on all kinds of crafts . In those days , there were a lot of “ secrets ”— secret techniques , impossible-to-find supplies , and a general sense of mystique . In crafting workshops , teachers regularly told students they should “ just experiment !,” which can be an overwhelming directive , especially for beginners . It felt a bit like a secret club , and not in a good way .
I was fortunate to learn how to teach from my previous boss , who taught me the basics of presenting a hands-on workshop , from assembling class kits to troubleshooting questions and what to do when things go awry — as sometimes happens ! We used to travel around the United States , Australia , and the UK to teach scrapbooking , card-making and papercrafting workshops at conventions . Most classes would have between fifty — seventy students and run back-to-back , so it was key to be organized and wellprepared .
Even as a changing industry , the impact of online videos , and COVID regulations have fundamentally altered the way people learn crafting , those teaching techniques have served me well in so many ways . Teaching is an act of creativity in itself . Not only do instructors need to present the topic effectively , they also must keep the class going , adhere to the allotted time , and manage any challenges that come up . These things hold true for online classes just as much as in-person sessions , and I ’ m seeing them — albeit from the other side of the desk / screen — with my online German classes .
Being a good teacher has something to do with being a good student . As I soldier on with German classes , I ’ m aware of the partnership between teacher and student — beyond both of us just needing to show up , there ’ s a wonderful opportunity to see learning , and teaching , as a positive connection between people and knowledge . We ’ ve all had experiences with bad or indifferent teachers — which makes it even better when you take a class from a good instructor who is really invested in how students learn .
Many people who enjoy creative hobbies like crafting will tell you they do not consider themselves to be creative . Yet when they have the instruction , the supplies , and the space to make something , they generally find themselves surprised by their own abilities . I see this in German class , too — the fellow students who say they ’ re just “ not good at ” languages , or grammar , or memorizing things , formulating sentences that earn the high praise of “ Genau !”
Even as a fellow student , it ’ s a joy to be part of an a-ha ! moment , and it ’ s something I imagine motivates many instructors , my German teacher included . The spark of connection , of grace , and of understanding — whether that ’ s over inky paper or the Akkusativ , must for so many teachers feel the same .
CURRENTS 21