Join a fascinating exploration of feedback dynamics in learning and collaboration. Discover the distinctions between constructive criticism and unhelpful advice, and learn how different motivations influence responses to feedback. The discussion touches on the challenges faced when adapting to new environments, like dance classes, and the importance of evaluating one's own skill level. Insights into navigating team dynamics and the emotional complexity of receiving feedback make for a thought-provoking conversation on personal growth and effective teaching.
Effective feedback is essential in learning environments, where understanding the difference between constructive criticism and distractions can significantly enhance personal growth.
Engaging with diverse challenges and mentors outside your comfort zone can greatly improve your skills, both in dance and professional contexts.
Deep dives
The Journey of Learning to Teach Dance
Learning to teach dance requires a different skill set than simply dancing. The experience of attending a dance workshop allows one to appreciate the nuances of dance and improve their ability to lead or follow. Exposure to diverse dancing styles and techniques helps dancers adjust their approach based on their partners' abilities. This process, however, can be hindered when feedback comes from fellow participants instead of instructors, complicating the learning experience and creating confusion.
Navigating Feedback Dynamics
Receiving feedback in an instructional setting can significantly impact a learner's confidence and performance. The podcast highlights how unsolicited advice from fellow learners can be both distracting and detrimental, leading to confusion about proper technique. It emphasizes the importance of evaluating the merit of feedback instead of reacting impulsively, illustrating how learners can choose to accept or ignore well-intended guidance. Ultimately, maintaining composure in the face of advice allows individuals to cultivate their unique dance style without feeling overwhelmed.
The Challenge of Finding the Right Environment
The selection of an appropriate learning environment is crucial for personal growth and development. Participants need to recognize the difference between constructive criticism meant to push them forward and feedback that may feel discouraging or harsh. The podcast draws parallels between dance workshops and professional settings, underscoring that sometimes growth requires pushing beyond comfort zones. Furthermore, individuals should seek out mentors or challenges outside their usual environments to stimulate personal and professional improvement.
"Every student is looking for a great teacher. What a lot of students don't realise is that every teacher is looking for a great student." – Ron Leslie
We're talking here about a dance workshop Corissa attended. But really this is about how to seek out and handle feedback in all kinds of situations.
How do you evaluate whether feedback is helpful or not?
How do you handle feedback or advice that's not constructive?
What do you do with people who throw their opinions around confidently even though they're wrong?
Challenges in evaluating your own level of experience or skill
When you ask for feedback, do you really want to learn – or do you secretly want to be validated?
Two ways to receive feedback badly
Choosing a team based on their ability to take feedback on board
An example of a teacher deliberately showing a class that they don't know as much as they thought
Feedback is taken differently by professionals vs hobbyists
Putting yourself out of your depth to trigger your lazy brain to want to put the effort in to learn
Some teachers/bosses are trying to challenge you; others are abusive
Some options to try if you want to challenge yourself more