> paying very close attention to the student(s) so you notice as soon as there's some divergence in their mental model from what you're trying to relate.
Yes! I call it “finding the NePoCU”, Nearest Point of Common Understanding.
Edit: or rather, the technique I use to identify where I can start explaining from.
I've realised immigrants, expats, bilinguals, and just anyone who has lived experience at the interfaces of different cultures are particularly good at this.
When you're both speaking your non-native language in a murky context you 'negotiate' back and forth, using simpler and simpler language (and hand gestures!) until you both agree you're at the NePoCU, and then you slowly build back up and have a great conversation. It's how things like pidgin trading languages emerge.
And of course it's a fun time because you both feel a little ridiculous struggling so dramatically to explain such simple words. Have those conversations in a bar, or over cups of tea, and you'll make some great friends and get invited to 'real' local events :)
Yes! I call it “finding the NePoCU”, Nearest Point of Common Understanding.
Edit: or rather, the technique I use to identify where I can start explaining from.