Dear all
I have been thinking over the last few days upon my return from
Toledo just how to explain my teaching methods. That is in teaching
basic knowledge of diamond and stone setting to individuals who have
never set a stone in their lives. Not only on the complexity in
setting, but to prove that ANYONE can do this, given all of the
nuances in what to look for while forging ahead in this setting
exercise.
All it takes is a mentor/teacher who well understands and is able to
communicate to those who they are teaching and what level each
student is at. As for me, I subject myself into a "little alter-
state"
which lasts for a few seconds at a time. I then explain every single
process from describing each bur size, and or a file grade in great
descriptive detail…it is as if I am doing the setting myself but
through this deep mental process in using diagrams.
Before I start every diagram, I ponder just how the diagram should
be drawn either at a 3-way view and at what angle so the student can
visualize each step along the way of learning. I pause every few
minutes and search for the next step and while doing this, the
student writes on paper their own diagram for future reference
exactly copying my drawing.
I always use real-life stories on each setting subject, why? I let
them know how interesting each of these projects are and how they
were accomplished during my 51+ years at the bench.
With this little break of my deep mood, I go ahead and proceed
onwards with a new diagram or setting phase. By the end of the day,
or 8 hours later, all of ‘us’ are exhausted. All during this we take
many little breaks and ask questions on anything being covered to
this point. Imagine a 3 day class just covering only 6 setting
designs, but each subject is fully explained.
In closing, my enjoyment is seeing someone having a new career/skill
now in their hands.
Gerry Lewy…:>)