as an educator, I am regularly forced to take continuing education courses. generally these required courses are less than spectacular. So last week I did some "OLD CAR professional development". One of my friends is a member of the Friends of Auburn Heights, a group that works to preserve and display the steam powered cars collected and restored by Clarence Marshall (and since his death) his son Tom. The Marshalls have a passion for steam powered vehicles, specifically Stanley Steamers. last Thursday night the friends of Auburn Heights held one of their "training sessions" for their group, members volunteered to learn how to operate and drive the steamers, and I had the unique oppertunity to see first hand what goes into making a Stanley steamer GO.. I only took a few photos.. but must say this was certainly more interesting than the "professional development" I'll sit through this fall. "preheating" the pilot in preparation for lighting the boiler. rocking the car back and forth to get all the water out of the cylinders.. and were off! the functional gas pump! blowing down.. at the end of the ride. for those in the area, who are interested.. the friends hold a Public Event called: Steamin' at Auburn Heights on July 27, 2008 Auburn Heights Museum & Grounds Open Operating steam cars, Steam railroad, Electric Car rides, Demonstrations! 1:00pm - 4:30pm Adults: $10 Children (2-12 Years Old): $7
the warm up process must have take 30 -40 minutes.. (however this was a teaching experience, so its likely you could be off faster IF things weren't explained.. either way.. its no wonder these things didnt last..
Like you will hear from more than a few students, "this is all so boring"... the mantra of the teacher suffering the tedium of Professional Development is long and sad. I'm all for learning new things but there are few new things available for old guys with 23 years of non-education experience in the arts. I'd like to learn how to weld like a welder and not an art major. Steam engines would be cool... but so would bodywork, or aerodynamics for top speed. Would love to have some machining experience on a mill or lathe, or a class in steering and suspension geometry. Like a lot of guys here on the HAMB, I like learning things. I only teach what I know so I'd like to learn more that I might teach more. Isn't that what PD is supposed to be about? Great post! fellow teacher, himmelberg
The Jalopy Journal
