With the onset of the covid 19 virus epidemic, a worldwide phenomena, the ensuing social isolation required to stem its’ spread has temporarily stopped my classes. Many classes at the college have resumed as on line events, and I am considering this option in order to fill the current need for T’ai Chi as a positive influence in the world.
The Rasta carpenters have a saying, “Measure twice and cut once.”, or, as the joke goes, “I’ve cut this board three times, and it’s still too short!”.
With this in mind, I am beginning to look at what teaching a physical activity such as T'ai Chi might be like as an on line and interactive class, with 21st century technology.
My co-instructor at the college is now teaching English on line. I have used the same on line technology for doctor visits and for Face time. With the current requirements for social isolation, some good options come to mind that make use of traditional teaching methods.
I’m looking forward to beginning interactive sessions one on one, before advancing to the classroom situation, and have plans for three types of sessions or session parts for the new classes.
First, we begin with, for new students, an introduction to the form, including a brief overview and demonstration.
Second, we offer a traditional following of the form, which would be good for students at various levels and very useful practice for new and current students.
Third, we offer teaching sessions in which individual students’ solo performance of the form, as far as they can do on their own, will be critiqued individually, presenting useful tips that are usually helpful to all of the students.
So far, I have not set a time line for this, but I have already begun the hardware and software design and accumulation, and hope to proceed rapidly once a usable teaching vehicle has been implemented.
It is my hope that this effort may prove invaluable long after the virus spread precautions are history, and may find its’ way to a large audience.
Post Traumatic Growth
The Cubans have a saying, “Whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
This might be applicable with the current pandemic. Hopefully we may yet take what ever lessons life sends us, no matter how difficult they may be, and come out the other side with good energy to face the future.
Best wishes to All,
Daniel
