Teaching Imagination

To get involved in as many things you like, to tempt you, or to simply make you happy.

These were the main reasons why I undertook my interview with one of the founders and creators of a new start-up whose aim is to introduce the new generation to the enormous world of Architecture.

What captured my attention was the smart use of Lego to establish a connection between the kids and this world of Design which definitely sounds like something that belongs to all the ones who already grown up.

Besides what I was interested in, I must say I had no experience of classroom teaching. So I was more than a little worried. Anyway, the first day came and I had no choice but to go on.

The kids with their enthusiasm and thrill were definitely crucial to make my first day smoother than I thought. As the semester went by I found the work more and more easy-going.

However, the amount of work I put into the lessons is always significant. During this teaching experience, I spent a lot of time preparing for each lesson.

I work hard to research different ways to present the information, I look for activities that my students would enjoy making sure that all the materials are ready before class starts. Even then, there are always things that would go wrong. Technology would fail. Students would complete activities quicker than planned. Or students would require much more time and explanation than expected.

Teaching requires confidence to show to kids you always know what you are talking about and a good dose of spontaneity for the ‘unexpected’ which is totally ordinary with kids.

As such, I realized that I need to be prepared as much as possible, but, more importantly, I need to prepare to be flexible. You never know what’s going to come up or what will catch the students’ attention. You definitely need to be prepared for changes. Figure out alternative activities in order to help your day go as smoothly as possible and allow your students to gain the most from the lessons.

The hardest thing is to find a way to maintain their attention constantly throughout the lesson, especially when the fun of construction ends and switches to a lesson on the introduction of the floor plan and elevations. You need to find the key to capture their curiosity to deliver a stimulating lesson giving them a goal, almost challenging them. They will surprise you with what they can do.

Immersing yourself and taking advantage of every opportunity afforded to you can really enrich your student teaching experience.

In my view, teaching is like performing art. No amount of reading or attending workshops will prepare you for the challenge. You only get better with practice.