Learning with a Simulator
Simulators aren’t just for experienced ringers or for silent practice on all your bells! A single sensor based simulator can be used in learn to ring sessions right from the start.They can also be used to practice anything from rounds to 10-bell methods with kaleidoscope and crazy, but useful exercises in between. With technology savvy students these days simulation is more acceptable and can be a more exciting way to learn, especially for youngsters.
Simulators are particularly useful for intensive practice without disturbing your neighbours and where you can’t get a band together to support a learner at the early stages of learning or even in learning methods.
Simulators are NOT just for Ringing Centres - you can use them at all stages of a ringer's development. The various stages of development can all utilise a simulator to good advantage in terms of “rope time”, good use of other ringers at an appropriate time, ringing repeated places or dodges, ringing with perfect simulated ringers and all without upsetting the neighbours!
Bell handling to rounds. Starting by simply using the bell sound through to looking and listening in rounds using the simulator sound & screen. At this early stage, you will be able to simply use a single sensor with simulation software on a suitable PC.
Foundation skills. Here the simulator is used for development of good handling, accurate striking and place changing. This is a critical stage which again requires extended practice time. With a simulator you can select any bell to become the tenor to the simulated rounds, Plain Hunt and methods.The simulator software can give full striking feedback both while ringing and for post-mortem analysis afterwards.You can also retain the data for future comparison for development feedback or even hold mini-striking contests at this level!
Introduction to change ringing. The simulator can introduce the student to place and dodging exercises before getting them to ring with the real band.The comment often heard is that its easier to ring with the real band!
Novice to experienced change ringer. The single bell sensor and simulator can continue to be used to consolidate good striking and to practise both ringing methods and conducting skills. A foot-switch is very useful at this stage as you can ring solo and simply effect the bob or single with your foot.
What can a simulator do for you?
A lot we would say and well worth the investment. Technology has moved on a long way and is an extremely valuable tool in teaching from the very first lesson.
For more information about how to use simulators
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