Lindsay Adams — 27 February 2009
Hats off to those who teach
I recently spent an evening speaking to a design class at Berkeley about research and how it’s used when working with design. I came away from the experience with such respect for those that teach on a regular basis. While I spend time presenting to clients and colleagues on a regular basis, speaking to students was a different ballgame altogether. Of course there are the eager to please students asking bright questions, genuinely interested in everything I’m saying, but then there are those in the back of the room not paying attention and in some cases nodding off. I found it hard not to take it personally when it was clear that a portion of my audience has no interest in my presentation. I was assured by the professor that my conversation was intellectually stimulating and helpful for the students, especially as there will be a research component to an upcoming project.
However, it was definitely a blow to my ego. I suppose if I think back to some of my classes there would be similar examples, but in the professional world I’m usually faced with an interested audience. Coming away from the experience I realize I can’t get frazzled or offended by a couple people when I’m faced with a crowd much larger than them. I also came to understand that making an effort for those who really want to learn something new is always worth it.
So, to all you teachers and professors - I salute you! You’ve got a tough crowd and yet you help make such a difference in shaping the minds of tomorrow.
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