This weekend I (Kate) was teaching a private retreat with select Child Care owners, directors and assistant directors from around Texas. A question came up during lunch about the term “masterclass” and the cost of trainings that experts are advertising.
There are conferences being marketed to this exact clientele (the school leaders) from people who have NEVER been a director, a child care teacher, have never owned a child care center, never run a child care center in Texas and who are selling their expertise for thousands of dollars a month to those in the field.
As we discussed this, we talked about how in Texas and most states there are trainer registry programs and that it is important to look at the credentials of the trainers you are getting your training from. Ask specific questions – serving the industry and being part of the industry is NOT the same.
The term “masterclass” originated in the performing arts, where it referred to a class or workshop taught by a master or expert in the field. These classes were typically aimed at advanced or professional-level performers and were designed to provide specialized training and insights into the craft. Over time, the term “masterclass” has come to be used more broadly to describe any class or workshop taught by an expert in their field.
If someone is advertising a masterclass, but they have no specialized training or experience, it can be seen as misleading or deceptive. It’s important for instructors to be transparent about their credentials and experience, especially when using marketing terms like “masterclass.” If someone is using the term “masterclass” as a sales tool to attract students, it could potentially harm their reputation and credibility if they are unable to deliver on the promises they make. It definitely did for some of the folks being discussed.
However, it’s also important to recognize that expertise and specialized training can come in many forms. For example, someone who has spent years honing their craft through self-study or hands-on experience may be just as qualified to teach a masterclass as someone with a formal degree or certification. In such cases, it’s important for the instructor to be transparent about their background and experience so that students can make informed decisions about whether to take their class.
In Texas, I encourage you to look up your instructors in the Texas Trainer Registry – https://public.tecpds.org/texas-trainer-registry/
Ultimately, whether someone’s class can be considered a “masterclass” depends on a variety of factors, including their expertise, experience, and the content of their class. If an instructor has no specialized training or experience, but is still able to provide valuable insights and perspectives to students, it may still be worth considering their class. However, if an instructor is using the term “masterclass” as a sales tool without providing any real value or expertise, it may be best to look elsewhere for more reputable and qualified instructors.
