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Teaching Horses And Riders

In order to improve how I work with people I have been reading about different teaching styles and methods.

One that stands out for me is the Feynman Technique.

Basically to really know a subject you should be able to break down even the most complicated matter and simplify it.

Try and structure it in your mind and simplify it in a way that might be understood by a child.

Try and do this in your own words so that its not just rhetoric or the words of others.

This is a way of confirming to yourself that you have a grasp of the subject.

Making something sound so complicated that only a genius could understand it might be good for your ego but is a very ineffective way of conveying knowledge.

Parroting the words of others is often used to convey the illusion of knowledge.

This may prove that someone has a good memory for words and phrases but is only effective, in teaching, if those words and phrases are used in context.

The Feynman Technique is as much about learning as it is about teaching.

To know a subject you must be able to break it down and simplify it to the point where you can explain it to a child.

Now, if you are working with an animal you must be able to break it down and simplify it to a point where you can help the animal learn it.

You might consider that you only have actions to make your point.

Ian Leighton and Kendric

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Sleepless in the Saddle – Liz Leighton

Equestrian Awareness – Tiredness & Fatigue

Elizabeth (Liz) Leighton – Horse Safety Australia Accredited Senior Instructor
Partner Ian Leighton Horsemanship

I’ve been thinking about the realities of the working lifestyle and riding over a few years now, and have found myself at times struggling to find the motivation to push myself further with my riding.  I’ve since discovered that much of this is due to stress and physical imbalances that have manifested themselves at times as lethargy and a lack of mental focus.  I am a continual work in progress to be a better, fitter and more mentally present horsewoman, and am fortunate to have a great support network to help me on this path.

A discussion a while ago with my nephew about his post graduate studies into sleep disorders, fatigue, routines and disruptions in high risk industries started me thinking about the impact of  fatigue in equestrian activities.  I’m not just referring to workplace or competitive environments but also recreational and trail riding activities as well as general handling.

I’ve had a number of conversations over the years with horse owners following injury, returning to the saddle after recovery or making the difficult Continue reading Sleepless in the Saddle – Liz Leighton