On a personal note here.....regarding how rewarding instructing can be....
Today I finished a course of flying with three air cadets on a light aircraft flying scholarship - all went solo and completed their 12 hours. Last night they presented me with a limited edition print of a wellington bomber - signed by all of them.
Sometimes words dont really say it. I was quite taken aback and had to hold back the emotion....
It would appear that over the 1.5 weeks I got to know them that they thoroughly enjoyed their course - that alone was thanks enough for me as an instructor to see their beaming faces after they solo'd and knew they had an extremely coveted set of FS ATC wings...(apparently very very rare...).
So I guess the bottom line is - sometimes I get suprised and something happens that makes it worth more than anything words or money can say....instructing is a truely rewarding (and learning) experience. Enjoy yourself. I do.
Back to the subject....
Will Kershner did an aeros book which I have - not seen the instructor book..however my tips are....
Never criticise your student - apply constructive comments that allow them to help themselves - sometimes allowing certain situations to go just a little 'too far' can also serve as a useful teaching point as why something should or shouldnt be done.
Never exceed your own ability, nor let the student exceed it.
Watch their hands like a hawk - whilst looking out the window and appearing confident
Always appear to have the fullest confidence in them. Especially the underconfident ones - make a point of saying how easy it is..it is isnt it? Please dont tell me its hard - Im still in denial
Lookout. It is difficult to teach and look out - but you can talk and look out and look at the student all at the same time....remember everyone else is trying to kill you out there - and if you let your lookout lapse theyll come close
Admit your own mistakes - so your student may learn by them - if you screw up the demo - turn it into a lesson on how to recover & sort the situation out!! It can be equally valuable. And yes. I am not god. I am extremely fallable (?!)......i do make mistakes - and many of them at that - but at least I try to get it reight all the time
Let your student fly AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. You have nothing to prove - you have done the exams & tests - let them fly the aircraft.
Let them do the radio from call #1. They dont know what to expect and therefore arent half as daunted after you have used the radio for 5-10 lessons....
most importantly....
MAKE IT FUN & have a laugh with them - I enjoy my flying immensely - and I try to ensure my students do too.
Regards,
FF