What kind of learner are you?

In the last year I’ve taught over 550 women, men and children how to braid.

And in that time, as well as being the teacher, I’ve also become the student.

I didn’t realise how much I’d enjoy observing how people learn, how they absorb information and then how they put it into practice. 

It’s really fascinating. 

And the more classes I’ve taught, the more patterns I’ve noticed.

Everyone is unique, everyone learns differently and everyone is VERY welcome at our table but I thought you might like to hear about the 5 different types of students I’ve spotted.

1. The ‘Challenger’

The most common of the students. The one that walks in and says, “You’ve got your work cut out with me!” or “I can’t even do a ponytail.” I see you. And I’ve got you. That’s why you’ve booked on, right? Worry not, you’ve probably come to Braid Basics and we’ll start at the very beginning. And, because you’ve made it clear to me you’re a bit worried, I’ll keep my eye on you and make sure you get those techniques in the bag by the end of the night.

2. The ‘Ants in their pants’

I love the enthusiasm these students bring to the table. I always demonstrate the braid and make sure everyone’s gathered round to watch before they go and try themselves. But there’s always someone who doesn’t stay for the full demo and who just wants to get cracking straight away. Go for it. I’m always on hand if you need a few extra pointers.

3. The ‘Cautious’

At the other end of the scale to the Ants, the Cautious will diligently stay for the whole demo and absorb all the information. Most likely to nod if I ask if they’d like to see the demo again. May need a little encouragement to go and give it a go on an actual practice head. The best way to learn is to jump in and give it a go. Classes are about getting the technique and then practicing. You got this!

4. The ‘Nailed It’

There’s always someone in the class who seems to be able to whip up the braid, first time, like a pro. Quite often its muscle memory from having done it before. Sometimes they’re first-timers. Either way it is impressive, I must say. The reaction of their fellow students varies on how well the class knows each other or how much banter the group is giving. So it can go from “Wow - that’s amazing!” to “OOOOOh, didn’t know we had a professional in the class. Go home!”. Always entertaining.

5. The ‘Messenger’

This tends to happen more if the student’s partner has been to a class previously and there is some competition going on between them now it’s their turn in the chair. There will be lots of photo taking and furious typing into Whatsapp followed by muffled laughing. A bit of healthy competition is no bad thing. Especially if there’s 2 people that want to do hair on the school run.

Whatever type you are, my accidental catchphrase ‘Practice Makes Progress’ applies to everyone.

Which one do you think you might be?

Or, If you’ like to find out what kind of learner you are, come to a class and see.

Hope to teach you/ braid you soon,

Annis x

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