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Old 02-10-2009, 11:15 AM   #25
Voitokas
 
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Join Date: Oct 2008
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Re: Underqualified Sensei

There is also a difference between someone leading a class and someone demanding the devotion that many sensei require. I teach classes often, but I ask students not to call me 'sensei' on or off the mat (they do anyway, but I scowl my best). Many sensei do ask that students learn only, or primarily, within that sensei's sphere - but those sensei also tend to be godan or higher. Teachers who are nidan and sandan and even shodan are more likely to teach as if they were leading a practise, encouraging students to learn from whomever they might, especially from others of more elevated rank... And, for those who might lead a practise, surely even a fifth kyu has something to teach everyone!

I am not an expert
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