Learning Legends | The Journey to Teaching Excellence
this Article is based on an Interview with Simon Arnold, SAS Trainer
When it comes to making learning an experience rather than just a task, Simon Arnold is the teacher we all wish we had. As a seasoned educator with SAS, Simon has spent years perfecting the art of not just teaching but inspiring. In this exclusive interview, Simon shares what makes teaching exciting for him, the challenges he’s faced, and his advice for those stepping into the world of education.
The Thrill of the Classroom
For Simon, the excitement of teaching lies in the human connection.
“I much prefer to be in front of a classroom with people,” Simon says. “Even if it means waking up early to head into London, I’m still excited to do it.”
Simon’s enthusiasm stems from building relationships with learners. “In the UK, we call it banter,” he explains. “Having a joke, a conversation, learning something about them, and them learning about you—it’s all part of creating a connection. Once you have that, teaching becomes a collaborative journey.”
This interaction isn’t just about delivering information; it’s about understanding the learners’ challenges and tailoring solutions to their needs. “It might sound corny, but helping someone solve a work problem—making their life just a little bit easier—that’s incredibly rewarding,” Simon shares.
The Challenges of Teaching Online
Despite his passion for in-person teaching, Simon acknowledges the growing trend of online education and the unique challenges it presents.
“Teaching online is like the difference between performing live on stage and doing radio,” he says. “You don’t see the immediate reactions, so you have to remind yourself that your audience is still there, engaged, and eager to learn.”
Another challenge Simon faces is staying mindful of what it’s like to learn something new. “After teaching SAS for so many years, it’s second nature to me. But for someone new, it can be overwhelming. To empathize, I’ve taken on learning challenges myself, like ballroom dancing, playing the ukulele, and even picking up Python.”
These experiences remind Simon of the frustrations and triumphs of being a beginner. “It’s helped me break things down more effectively for my students, making their learning journey smoother,” he notes.
Why Teaching Is Worth It
What led Simon to this path? It’s a mix of passion for performance and a genuine love for helping others grow.
“I enjoy being in front of people, whether it’s teaching or performing with my amateur dramatics group,” Simon says. “But more importantly, I love seeing that moment when someone understands something for the first time. It’s a buzz that never gets old.”
Look how talented he is. Always on stage.
Advice for Aspiring Educators
For those considering a career in education, Simon’s advice is simple yet profound: “Be yourself. Don’t try to mimic other instructors. Authenticity not only makes teaching easier but also helps build genuine connections with your students.”
Simon also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. “Put yourself in the shoes of a learner as often as you can. It’s the best way to stay empathetic and effective as a teacher.”
The Future of Education
Simon observes significant shifts in how people approach learning.
“Education has moved online, which brings both opportunities and challenges,” he says. “People today want quick answers. They’re used to looking up specific solutions on YouTube or online tutorials. While this is great for immediate needs, it can lead to a fragmented understanding.”
Simon believes that comprehensive training, especially in-person, is essential to fill these gaps. “When you only learn the bits you think you need, you miss out on discovering better, more efficient ways to solve problems. Structured courses help connect the dots and unlock the full potential of tools like SAS.”
Bringing the Joy Back to Learning
Simon’s enthusiasm and commitment to education are infectious. Whether it’s his efforts to make online classes more engaging or his belief in the power of in-person interaction, Simon reminds us that learning is about much more than just gaining skills—it’s about growth, connection, and discovery.
If Simon’s story has inspired you, why not take the next step in your own learning journey? Explore the wide range of in-person SAS training options available and experience firsthand the difference a passionate educator can make.
🍒 Here is a special cherry on the cake for you >>> Simon recorded a special Tip 💡 on #SASEnterpriseGuide for you:
Learning Legends | Unlocking the Power of SAS Enterprise Guide
