Set Aside Time for Practicing and Questions

Sometimes people will ask for help with something that seems very simple to you. It may be something you can do well and do often. No matter how simple or difficult the request is, be sure you not only show people what to do but allow them to practice with you while you're there. In the Designing Learning module, you'll learn about the "I do, we do, you do" model. That's a simple process to keep in mind when you're sharing new information or helping someone learn new skills. Be sure you save time to allow your partner to practice during your conversation. A conversation in which only you talk and share information is not purposeful. That's not even a conversation. That's a lecture.

You may not have a lot of time to work with someone. You may not get through the entire model. You may only have time to model a new skill ("I do") and then practice it together ("we do"). It would be ideal to have time to let your partner demonstrate their new skill on their own ("you do"), but if you have limited time, that can be practice they can do on their own until you meet again. Start your next session by having them show you what they've practiced.