My Teaching Philosophy:Tour Leader

Jordan Koopmans

• Preparation is essential. Prior knowledge, language, religion, historical facts, as well as confidence will help your tour group. They will respect your professionalism and experience within the area.

• A map is never a sign of weakness. We don’t know all the answers and sometimes require a little bit of assistance and guidance.

• Develop relationships. You have to spend everyday with these people. Some might need a little more help getting going or trying something new compared to others but be fair to everyone. Motivate them but don’t push people too far.

• Be prepared as no one said it would easy! It will take lots of hard work, long hours planning and putting up with all different people are all part of the job. Bumps and bruises will come along the way so be able to roll with them and not let them get you down.

• Don’t overload them with knowledge. Cool and interesting facts will stick with them longer, and be more easily remembered. Create memories not headaches.

• Reflection: You won’t get it right every time or even the first so allow room to grow. With critiques, evaluations and feedback you will learn from your mistakes. Keep in touch with your contacts as you never know when they may come in handy. Don’t make the same mistakes twice and prepare for the next go around.

Pictures- Taken by yours truly (Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos)

Music- Good Life- OneRepublic