Dooley Noted: 3/12/2016
Every year that I teach in Australia, I learn something new.
This year, I paid attention to the way the Australians in my class listened.
It inspired me to be a better listener.
Not once – in two classes – were the attendees combative.
They ask well thought-out questions and listen attentively to your answers, never waiting for their chance to speak.
They aren’t constantly on their phones in the middle of your teachings, and they aren’t watching a clock.
They are respectful of your need to breathe after a long breakout discussion. They don’t follow you to the bathroom.
They never bad-mouth other systems or people in the field during a class.
And they are willing to have their paradigm challenged – if you offer a solid explanation and provide tools for new investigations.
The room full of students is much smarter than me.
They taught me how to listen with respect and admiration.
And I felt myself relax so much into what I could share that all I wanted was one more hour to give them anything I could.
If you are a student in a class, I hope you will mimic the professionalism and all-around human kindness of the Australians.
You might find that you learn more – and the teacher may inherently give you more as a result.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley
