Juggling & Learning: The Art of Trusting the Process

Have you ever tried to learn juggling? Common intuition might tell you it’s all about catching. But delve deeper, and you'll discover it's much more about mastering the throw. Here’s a quick exercise: Stand straight, extend your arms, and form an 'L' with each. Hold a ball in one hand and toss it in a gentle arc, ensuring it descends seamlessly into the palm of your opposite hand. This initial practice is about perfecting that singular, crucial throw.

Much like juggling, the path of learning can sometimes defy a student's intuition. Imagine a student questioning the value of a class discussion or the relevance of reading a paper they'll dissect in the next lecture. "How is this helping me?" they wonder. Their critical thinking is commendable and exactly what we aim to nurture. However, when it pertains to tried and true teaching methods, such skepticism can hinder their learning journey.

Our role as lecturers is to guide students, helping them appreciate and engage in these teaching methods. Here are a couple of approaches to consider:

1. Promote Trust in the Process: Rather than detailing every nuance of why a method works, encourage students to trust the process. Let them know that only through genuine engagement can they experience its full benefits. You can bolster this with testimonials from senior students who've walked this path before.

2. Demystify the Learning Mechanism: For those who seek a deeper understanding, elucidate the mechanics of the learning activity. Highlight studies or sources that underscore the efficacy of these methods.

Whichever approach resonates with you, it’s essential to employ it. After all, we challenge our students with tasks that might seem unconventional. It’s only fair we also equip them with the understanding or faith to embrace these methods. In doing so, we're not just teaching them a subject; we're teaching them the art of learning itself. And just like our budding juggler, with time and trust, they too will find their rhythm and flourish.

This post was created with the help of ChatGPT GPT-4 and Midjourney (cover image).