
Spects play in foreign worlds yet they’re expected to behave as natives. Modeling allows spects to see how things are done so they can do those things themselves.
The process of modeling is straightforward. The inter-actor performs an action. Having seen how it’s done, the spect repeats the behavior. It guides spects through implication instead of instruction.
Modeling objects – A common use of modeling is when you’re doing space work. It’s an oblique way to help spects know what invisible objects are and how to use them.
Eddie mimes chalking up his mimed pool cue and calls his shot. “Two ball, corner pocket.” He takes his shot, and by his response, he clearly missed. Eddie holds out his cue to the spect. “OK, let’s see what you got.”
If modeling doesn’t clarify the space work for the spect, there’s nothing wrong with naming the object explicitly.
The spect looks blankly at Eddie, who asks, “You don’t want to use my pool cue?” “No.” “Well, there’s a rack of them there on the wall.” The spect goes to the imaginary rack, picks a cue, chalks it up, and proceeds to run the table.
Modeling behaviors – Modeling is also useful when clarifying how spects are expected to behave in a situation.
Diego approaches Don Carlos, takes the Don’s hand and kisses his ring. Seeing what’s expected, the spect approaches and repeats the show of respect. The next time the spect meets with Don Carlos, he kisses the ring without any prompting.
When spects need to engage in actions, you can avoid the trap of instructing them by modeling the desired behavior.
Updated: August 22, 2024