Its been a while since many of us have been in a classroom setting for an extended period of time. For some it may be over 20+ years! We are learning a program called Xactimate. It is a claims estimating tool that is both powerful and complex. Our knowledge of this software is key to us being successful in the field and therefor many in the class have some anxiety over learning the program.
I have noticed some higher levels of frustration in the classroom dynamics between some of the other students and the instructor. It brings something my father told me a long time ago. A teacher cannot teach anyone, they can only explain things in a way that people who want to learn can understand. Its not that anyone in the class doesn’t want to learn, however a student needs to open their minds up to learning from all available sources AND practice what they are leaning. Its the reinforcement component of self study and study groups that will build confidence in what you are retaining and ‘stitch’ it together in your own head.
During the last week we have had multiple people assisting those who were struggling with the software. Yours truly even was asked by the instructor to do one of the exercises for the class. I know what he was doing when he asked, having someone else go though the process and explaining it in their own words. We all could see progress and we all learn something.
Today we had a good breakthrough, some of those who were very frustrated with the software completed a case in the software with no real external assistance. Even better they did it in good time too. This really boosted the confidence in both their ability and that of the instructor. It really became a win-win for everyone.
For those going back to school here is what I have learned so far about the process:
- Actively participate in class. Ask relevant questions and say the answer back in your own words.
- Listen to your fellow students. They can help you understand more and you may be able to help them learn more.
- Get a study group going. Even if its only for two hours a week, you will be amazed how much you can re-enforce in that short period of time. We are meeting at a Starbucks/book store.
Hind site is 20/20. I am doing things differently than high school and college. The experience is different and I know I am getting more out of it because of the way I am approaching it.
