This blog post is AI-generated by Claude and inspired by the original PolyTripper video linked below.
Hi Language Buddy!
I hope you had a productive week. Today I want to talk about something that applies not just to online language instruction, but to life in general: you being in charge, you being the client, and you driving the lesson.
I've mentioned this in previous videos, but it's worth emphasizing: when you're taking an online language lesson, you're the one paying. You're the client. You're in charge.
Too many people see specialists—whether it's a car mechanic, a doctor, or a language teacher—as some kind of god who calls all the shots while they remain passive participants with no input.
I hear people complain about their online language lessons: "Oh, the teacher did this and I didn't really like it." When I ask why they didn't say anything, why they didn't try to change it or express their displeasure, it genuinely doesn't occur to them that they have that power.
Research in social psychology helps explain this dynamic:
Authority bias: Studies show people tend to defer excessively to perceived experts, even when their own preferences are valid and important.
Learned helplessness: Dr. Martin Seligman's research demonstrates how people can develop patterns of passive acceptance even when they have control over their situation.
Consumer empowerment studies: Research consistently shows that active clients who communicate their needs achieve better outcomes in service relationships.
Collaborative learning theory: Educational research by Dr. Kenneth Bruffee shows that learning improves when students take active roles in directing their education.
You're relying on the teacher for their expertise and guidance, absolutely. But you're allowed to have your own preferences. You're allowed to have things you like and don't like, and you're definitely allowed to express your wishes.
Make it a collaborative effort instead of a passive experience where you're just sitting back expecting the teacher to decide everything and drive everything.
This principle extends to healthcare situations too. I can't count the number of times I've seen people accept medical advice without question.
One time I went to the doctor and they prescribed really heavy medication. I asked, "Do I really have to take this?" The doctor replied, "Nah, not really." So I didn't take it and I was fine.
The point isn't to be difficult or ignore expert advice—it's to be an advocate for yourself and ensure the service meets your actual needs.
Practical ways to drive your language learning sessions:
Communicate your goals: Tell your teacher what you want to focus on—conversation, grammar, pronunciation, or specific topics.
Express preferences: If you don't like an activity or teaching method, speak up. Good teachers want to know what works for you.
Ask questions: Don't just accept explanations you don't understand. Ask for clarification or alternative explanations.
Request specific practice: If you need to work on particular skills for work or travel, make that known.
Give feedback: Let your teacher know what's working and what isn't. They're not mind readers.
When you take an active role in your lessons:
Better learning outcomes: Lessons align more closely with your actual needs and learning style.
Increased engagement: You're more invested when you have control over the direction.
Faster progress: Time isn't wasted on activities that don't serve your goals.
Improved confidence: Taking control in lessons builds confidence that transfers to real-world language use.
The same principle applies to your independent learning. Don't passively consume whatever materials you find—actively choose resources that match your goals, interests, and learning style.
You're the director of your language learning journey, whether in lessons or self-study.
Being in charge doesn't mean being demanding or difficult. It means:
Clear communication: Express your needs and preferences respectfully.
Collaborative problem-solving: Work with your teacher to find solutions that serve your goals.
Constructive feedback: Share what works and what doesn't in a helpful way.
Openness to expertise: Listen to your teacher's professional recommendations while maintaining your own agency.
Many factors contribute to passive behavior in learning situations:
Cultural conditioning: Some educational backgrounds emphasize student passivity and teacher authority.
Fear of conflict: People worry about seeming difficult or ungrateful.
Imposter syndrome: Learners may feel they don't know enough to have valid preferences.
Unfamiliarity: Many people simply don't know they can direct their own learning experience.
When you shift from passive recipient to active participant, everything changes. Your lessons become more relevant, engaging, and effective. You develop confidence not just in the language, but in advocating for your own needs.
This skill transfers beyond language learning—it helps you get better service from any specialist you work with.
Remember: you're not just paying for someone to teach at you. You're investing in a collaborative partnership where your input drives the direction.
That's my message for this week: be an advocate for yourself in language learning and in life. Make it collaborative, not passive, and reap the rewards.
Take care, and I'll see you next week!
