Obtaining a “Second Signature”

It’s often remarked that the T’ai Chi Chih Teachers’ Training Course turns out to be one of the most important experiences of a person’s life. The second signature referral process was put in place to further ensure that a candidate headed to the course has had a well-rounded and thorough preparation that should enhance their experience.

The two teachers who sign a candidate’s referral form are both responsible for working with the candidate. Using the Preparation Guidelines (found on www.taichichih.org), both teachers work with the candidate to ensure that all aspects of preparation set forth in the guidelines are met.

On several occasions students working toward accreditation have come to events (such as retreats and intensives) hoping to receive a second signature. This assumption is understandable if there is only one teacher in their area, and they have not been able to work with another teacher. But the point of a second signature is for the student to be able to work with at least two teachers: to get a variety of feedback, to experience different teaching styles, to be evaluated by more than one person. All this takes place over a period of time.

There is a certain amount of learning and growing that takes place as a student moves into the teacher candidate roll. It is essential to have a close working relationship during this time of going deeper into the “doing and understanding” of T’ai Chi Chih. Knowing a candidate’s character and ability is also necessary if recommending her or him to become a T’ai Chi Chih teacher. This process cannot be done by setting aside a few hours during an event or receiving an evaluation at the end of an event.

While a second signature should not be expected at an intensive, the candidate will receive valuable input regarding his or her T’ai Chi Chih form, and he or she will deepen their understanding and experience with T’ai Chi Chih.