I have covered a quite a bit of the science and technique of flight instruction. Still, as with most processes involving humans, there is still a quite a bit of mystery to the whole affair. Some days I really perform well as an Instructor. I remember all of the details, pace the lesson properly, let the student fly, am tough when I have to be, forgiving of what can be forgiven, don’t let my experience get in the way of the student’s experiences, and generally operate at the peak of my game. Still, the outcome with the student may not be what I want it to be. Sometimes they just don’t get it! This is when you start to learn that instruction is not all artifice and technique. Perseverance and patience are often just as important to the process. On the other hand some days they do get it even when you are not at your best, so I guess there is a balance in everything. Instructing is like the whole soaring process, not usually what you expect, always something new. If you remember to keep looking around, you will often be pleasantly surprised with what you find. I’ll leave your with the following thoughts:
I have learned that, if there’s no joy, don’t fly. While I instruct in a largely volunteer system, judging
from the general pay scales for instructors, I think this advice still applies.
You will know that you were meant to do this, when you get as much satisfaction out of coaching a
student through that first landing, as you experienced on your first one.
Some days your students can astound you! I am often green with envy at how much better they can
perform some skill than I can.
Some days your students can astound you! I am often driven to despair that they will ever get it.
Things generally go better if you learn to accept them for what they are and get on with it.
Give the gift of flight freely. Flying is something you have to try before you know if you will like it. Don’t get discouraged by those who don’t finish their training or leave the sport. Continue to share the experience with those who stay and respect those who leave.
Look to raise a cheer, or break out with the applause, and celebrate the moment. Soaring flight is so
often solitary. Instructors and students have the opportunity to share something special.