Self Evaluation

It is important that the instructor evaluates his/her teaching method, class organisation, communication and skill level.

Consider the following:

• Do I include all students in class discussions?

• Do I vary the content of the session?

• Am I patient when students ask questions?

• Does the class run at a good pace?

• Do I respond appropriately to the student who requires more attention?

• Do I use effective ways to encourage students?

• Do I challenge all students while keeping the content appropriate?

• Do I demonstrate clearly?

• Do I have good communication skills?

• Is my cueing consistent and timely?

• Do I talk too much?

• Are my instructions and cueing simple enough to be effective?

• Do I engage all students?

• Am I aware of disengagement?

• Do I respond positively to all questions?

• Do I modify the class content if required?

• Do I have the knowledge to answer most students’ questions?

An instructor, especially one who is newly trained, should be under the guidance of a master or an experienced instructor to ensure his/her own skills and knowledge continue to develop.  An isolated instructor, who has no connection to other tai chi schools or organisations can become complacent with their own ability.  Attending courses, workshops and other events will keep you motivated and true to the tai chi philosophy of always searching for improvement in skills and knowledge.

To gauge the effectiveness of your classes, asking students to complete a survey is an excellent way to keep abreast of opinions and attitudes.   These must be considered as a tool to enhance classes, and all responses should be read clinically.  If some responses are negative, or less than glowing, they should not be seen as a personal attack, but rather they should be used to improve and develop teaching skills.