12 Things Students Called Me Out On That Completely Changed My Teaching

An experienced yoga instructor has shared 12 impactful comments from students over her 20-year teaching career that led her to significantly alter her approach to teaching yoga.

The instructor, who began teaching nearly two decades ago, initially did not anticipate students speaking during classes. Over time, students voiced concerns and questions that prompted her to adapt her methods. Key feedback included students saying she spoke too quietly, questioned the purpose of poses, or shared personal limitations, which she initially overlooked.

For example, students told her she couldn’t hear her cues, leading her to project more confidently. A student asked, ‘What if I can’t do it?’ prompting her to provide more options. When a student revealed her expertise in anatomy, the instructor shifted to a more collaborative approach, encouraging student input. Other comments, such as questions about pose purpose or personal physical issues, helped her to tailor her teaching to individual needs and foster a more inclusive environment.

Why It Matters

This story underscores the importance of listening to student feedback in teaching settings. It demonstrates how such input can lead to more effective, inclusive, and safe instruction. For more ideas on fostering inclusive learning environments, check out resources for educators. For educators across disciplines, it highlights the value of humility, adaptability, and ongoing learning from those they teach.

Background

Over her two-decade career, the instructor initially followed traditional teaching methods, with limited student interaction. For those interested in enhancing their teaching tools, exploring resources on iPad options for students can be beneficial. Her realization that student feedback could be a powerful tool for growth came gradually, especially after hearing concerns about volume, purpose, and personal limitations. Teachers seeking to improve their classroom engagement might find student-focused resources helpful. These comments prompted her to modify her approach, making her classes more responsive and engaging.

“Their contributions and criticisms have helped evolve my teaching more than any training, book, or podcast.”

— the instructor

“I feel more anxious when I close my eyes.”

— a student

“My wrists hurt.”

— another student

What Remains Unclear

It remains unclear how widespread or consistent the instructor’s adaptations are across different classes or teaching environments. The long-term impact of these changes on student outcomes has not been quantified.

What’s Next

The instructor plans to continue soliciting and incorporating student feedback, possibly formalizing feedback mechanisms. She also aims to share her experiences through workshops or articles to encourage other educators to adopt similar reflective practices. For inspiration, see how other teachers have benefited from technology tools for teaching.

Key Questions

How did student feedback change her teaching style?

It led her to become more vocal, adaptable, and attentive to individual needs, fostering a more inclusive and responsive classroom environment.

What specific changes did she make based on student comments?

She increased her volume, offered more pose options, used more inclusive cues, and became more cautious with physical adjustments.

Are these changes applicable to other teaching disciplines?

Yes, the principles of listening, adaptability, and valuing feedback are relevant across many teaching contexts.

Source: Yoga Journal