[Eric18]

Motivation definitely matters. I echo your observations and share your conclusions.

[Denis DNT]

Don't you guys feel that adult teaching sometimes is like getting paid to listen to people talk? That's the most exciting, relaxing and convenient part of adult teaching to me.

[Siddhartha]

It can seem that way sometimes, what with keeping the teacher talking time down and all that. Being that I’m such a curious person, I find it exciting to get a peek at how students look at different important issues.

I’m not sure I would say it’s relaxing though, as when I’m not talking, I’m not simply listening passively. I actively make notes on what needs to be corrected during my talking time, and how the lesson/topic might be expanded.

[Eric18]

Agreed! That's one of the simple, yet enduring, attractions of teaching conversation - and finding out how the world looks from another perch.