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I have been in a volunteer position giving individual instruction and assistance to people. It is computer and tech stuff, because that is what I know and am comfortable with. It's been a fascinating endeavour. I have no teaching credentials or experience as such -- just some common life experiences. Oh, and I have social anxiety and big self-esteem issues -- so it's been a pretty wild ride. I typically don't even know ahead of time what they are coming in for and what they will be asking. I often have to improvise like heck. (Eek! )

I had assumed -- and my experience so far has confirmed this, that despite the fact I am the one conveying the information -- listening is a huge factor in being a good teacher.

I recognize that people learn differently, and so try to observe how they are reacting and change my approach and content accordingly. So mostly it's a matter of talking back and forth and engaging with them.

Not surprisingly, my own fight with social anxiety has helped considerably with setting people at ease. Many are retirees, who are a little embarrassed to be coming in for help, worried about possible mental decline, "don't want to be a bother", and so forth. My own struggles have helped me to be friendly, understanding, patient, encouraging, and re-assuring.

Despite the stress, I find it all intellectually and emotionally rewarding.