The Greased Rubber Ball

Back when I was instructing electronics and instrumentation apprentices and technologists I liked to start each new batch of students with my “Greased Rubber Ball” theory of learning. I told them that their upcoming learning experience would be like trying to stay on top of a giant greased rubber ball. I suggested that if they did not take the situation seriously right from the start, they would easily slip off the ball. It would be most difficult to climb back on. I also suggested their best bet would be to buckle down and cling to the top of that ball, work hard and focus on keeping their balance. Silly though the analogy may be, I still think it paints a useful picture.

Now that I am primarily concerned with creating training materials, rather than delivering them, I can see the value in producing materials that help students maintain that focus, ensuring a successful learning experience.