| Elements of Skill is the latest book by Ted Dimon, in which he applies his deep knowledge of the Alexander Technique, and of education and pedagogy, to the fascinating topics of the acquisition of skills, and their expression in performance.
Ted’s writing is clear and logical, leading the reader in a very agreeable manner to consider the problems, and their solutions within these crucial areas.
I believe Elements of Skill is essential reading for all teachers and students of the Alexander Technique, and will also be very helpful to a much wider audience, especially teachers of every kind.
Elements of Skill elaborates very deliberately on how we function in learning - “the mental and physical processes that govern how we learn” and how we function in carrying out a learned skill.
Ted refers to “a new principle of intelligent mastery of the self” which enables yet higher levels of skill achievement, and is in fact “an entirely new approach to learning”. Readers who are Alexander teachers will understand right away that he is talking about the principles and application of the Alexander Technique. Readers unfamiliar with F.M.Alexander’s work may not fully appreciate (unlike John Dewey and Ted Dimon), the essential contribution that Alexander made to the field of education.
Vital issues are examined: How does one achieve competence? Why do so many fail to achieve competence, let alone great skill? Why is great skill such a rarity? What are the fundamental teaching principles and methods that will produce real learning and skilled performance? What is the self-mastery and inner development that is required for learning and performing new skills?
These absolutely crucial questions are addressed with intelligence and grace. The territory is very serious in that our failure to understand these issues holds back our very evolution as a species, but Ted’s relaxed and inviting style leads the reader deftly through this landscape.
As well as general theory, the author gives numerous concrete examples of learning situations in which inappropriate effort, unsound conceptions, unreliable awareness and kinesthesia, and tension patterns all interfere with the acquisition and performance of skills. He explains how “the critical factor … must be conscious understanding and reason, not just blind attempts to do what seems ‘right’”.
Ted describes how it is “necessary to raise the process of action to a more conscious level” and the final two chapters are centered around “non-doing”- confirmation that the Alexander Technique is the heart and soul of this book.
As an Alexander teacher, I would personally have valued more references to F. M. Alexander’s discoveries upon whose foundation this very constructive book rises up. Fortunately Elements of Skill is aimed at, and will appeal and be very helpful to, an even wider audience. I urge all Alexander teachers and trainees to buy a copy - you won’t be disappointed.
© Neil Schapera. Reproduced with permission.
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