From time to time, everyone has a difficult or frustrating afternoon in the shop -- at our staff meeting last Monday, we added to an ongoing list of tips to keep in mind when you're fixing up a bike during our daily drop-ins:
-No two people learn the same way, and it never hurts to ask a student what works best for them.
-Quite often a step backwards precedes a big step forward.
-Mentors and students have equal footing in the shop, but it is most often up to the mentor to lead.
-Teach by example, even when clueless -- learning together teaches how to learn.
-Expect to be tested by students (and when it happens, don't take it personally).
-Consistency goes a long way.
-Set boundaries, and respect them. Ask for student input regularly.
-When frustrated, it's ok to walk away and return with a fresh perspective.
-Disrespectful language and behavior are not acceptable -- the shop must be a safe place for everyone.
More to come, so stay posted!
No two people learn the same way. Ask each student what works best for them.
ReplyDelete People often take a step backwards before taking a big step forward.
Both student and mentor have equal footing but mentors usually lead.
Teach by example, even when clueless. Learning together teaches how to learn.
Expect to be tested by students. Don’t take it personally.
Consistency goes along way.
Set boundaries as necessary. Respect boundaries. Ask permission of students.
It’s okay to walk away when frustrated and return with a fresh perspective.
Disrespectful language and behavior are not accepted.
Make small goals, celebrate and acknowledge reaching them.
Students do the work for themselves. Mentors help, participate, and guide.
Expect that students don’t know how to be safe. Practice safety as a rule.
When in doubt, ask for help!
Ask students to show you how to solve bike repair problems.
Assess the balance between student’s skills and level of challenge.
Sometimes the bike chosen is too challenging to repair so pick an easier one.
Never discard parts until the bike has been completely repaired and inspected.
Keep dismantled parts organized in one space and in the installation order.
Return all tools and parts bins to their home in the shop for others to use.
Listen and watch for kids’ interests, strengths, challenges, and show interest.
Learning and developing skills creates power of choice and opportunities.