Every hands-on EQ class will be different, depending upon the resources and limitations of the particular computer lab in which you are teaching. You may be using a state-of-the-art computer lab in a classroom setting or students may be providing their own laptops in an informal setting. You may have access to printers and to the Internet, or your only resource may be the computers themselves. In any case, here are some helpful guidelines for planning and conducting an EQ class:

WRITE A PROPOSAL OR CLASS DESCRIPTION. Give a brief overview of the class so that your students know what they can expect to learn about EQ6. Be concise, but be sure to communicate your enthusiasm and excitement! Specify the appropriate skill level, state any prerequisites, and give dates, days, times, and sponsors (guild, quilt shop, etc.)

SIGN A CONTRACT. Sign a contract with the class sponsor or with the computer lab. Sylvia Landman has included a standard contract model in Chapter 21 of her book "Crafting for Dollars." This book is an excellent reference for aspiring teachers and is available through the Quilt University bookstore or through Sylvia’s website: http://www.sylvias-studio.com/ Be sure to state a maximum and minimum enrollment.

PROMOTE YOUR CLASS. Send class information to the Electric Quilt Company (webmaster@electricquilt.com) in advance so that they can announce your class on their website.

PREREQUISITES. If students are bringing their own laptops, require that EQ6 be loaded and operational on their computers BEFORE the class starts. Also insist that students bring an external mouse. Be sure to state clearly that each student must know how to run her own laptop and that you will not provide technical assistance during class.

PLAN WELL. Individual class sessions should last no longer than three hours each. Organize the class into tasks. Divide the tasks into an hourly schedule and maintain this schedule. Be prompt in starting and ending the class. If computers are being provided for the students, suggest in advance that they bring an appropriate saving device (floppy, CD, memory stick, etc.) so that they can bring their project files home.

ARRANGE FOR HELPERS. If you are teaching a large lab class, it is important to have experienced EQ6 users to assist you. These teacher aides should be familiar with the class outline and the features and functions that you will cover. Be sure to introduce your helpers to the class and thank them for their assistance.

BE PREPARED. There will be technical challenges, otherwise known as minor disasters, in each class. If possible, keep at least one computer in reserve so that you have an extra machine available if any of the others break down. If you are teaching in a lab situation in which computers are provided, be sure that technical assistance is provided during the class.

KNOW THE TOPIC. Be comfortable and confident with EQ6's major features and functions: the drawing, coloring, and quilt design tools. Explore the extensive EQ6 Libraries so that you are familiar with this important resource. You don’t have to know everything about the program but you DO have to know it very, very well in order to teach it effectively.

TEACH WHAT YOU KNOW. Teach or demonstrate the EQ6 features that you are comfortable with, keeping in mind that you cannot know everything there is to know about the program. Admit when you don’t know the answer to a question and offer to answer it later in class when you have had time to think about it.

KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE. Start each class by asking students how much computer and EQ experience they already have. Observe their activity in class and then adjust your presentation and pace accordingly, giving them more information if they are experienced, but less if they are not familiar with the technology. Do not overestimate beginners!

PAIR STUDENTS. Students learn more effectively when they work together in pairs, sharing a computer and taking turns as they each exercise the program’s functions. Pair a beginner with a more experienced student, if possible. Keep the class working together. Students who forge ahead invariably get lost or miss critical information.

DISTRIBUTE HANDOUTS. Give students a class outline that includes illustrations of each design that they will create.

GIVE CREDIT. If you use someone else’s ideas or designs, you must give them credit. You cannot distribute copyrighted material in your class without first obtaining permission from the author or designer. If you use a book or pattern in class, students should be required to buy the book.

ENCOURAGE QUESTIONS. Tell students that every question is a good one that will benefit the class. There are NO stupid questions. Remain on topic and don’t be sidetracked by questions that are too advanced or are outside of the class material. Try to distribute your attention equally to all students in the classroom.

SCHEDULE PLAYTIME. You should schedule 10-15 minutes of experimentation during each hour of class. Walk around the classroom and observe the students’ progress. Offer assistance and encouragement freely. Have extended activities ready for students who are more advanced.

SHARE RESOURCES. There are many free resources that you can recommend to your students, beginning with the Electric Quilt Company website (www.electricquilt.com). It is important to let them know that they are part of an interactive community that will welcome their questions and contributions. Strongly encourage students to use the EQ Help file, to read the EQ6 User Manual, and to explore the EQ6 accessory books!

FOCUS ON THE GOAL. Your primary goal should be to teach students what THEY need to know, not to show off what YOU know!