Dr. Yang Yang's Evidence-Based Taiji Teacher Certification Training
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Overview of the Center for Taiji Studies' Evidence-Based Traditional Taiji (EBTTM) Teacher Certification Program
What is the EBTTM program?
The EBTTM program is the product of Dr. Yang's traditional training with several of the 18th generation grandmasters of the Chen style, and his work as a researcher studying the mechanisms and benefits of Taiji and Qigong practice. When devising this program, Dr. Yang asked himself the simple question: "what are the most important aspects of traditional training that will yield the greatest measured benefit in the shortest amount of time?" The EBTTM program is the product of that question, and has been refined with the experience of several university trials. It contains static and dynamic qigong exercises, which are critically essential for efficient practice, and a seven-movement introductory form that is purposely challenging yet adaptable to suit persons of all ages and physical abilities. The program is documented in an approximate 4-hour instructional video.While the EBTTM program itself is intended as an introductory program -- let's call it an undergraduate program for students -- understanding the program deeply enough to become a certified teacher is graduate work in Taiji and Qigong.
Why certification?
Two words: quality control. Quality of instruction and practice is Dr. Yang's passion and primary purpose for establishing a certification program.Only by studying with qualified instructors can persons realize the maximum potential benefit of Taiji and Qigong practice. Traditionally, quality instruction has always been recognized as essential for learning Taiji. Dr. Yang offered two famous traditional Chinese sayings relating the importance of quality instruction in his book:
Tricks of the trade and secrets of practice must be passed on by sincere instruction from a teacher who understands the art; and
One word from a knowledgeable teacher can save ten years of hard practice.
There is no way around it -- who your teacher(s) is (are) is critical for what you learn, and as a teacher you have a responsibility to both the art and your students to pass on essential and efficient curriculum. Instructors in training (IITs) must pass a written and performance based exam administered by Dr. Yang before being certified to teach others. Standards are high and attendance at teacher certification training events does not guarantee a passing grade.
For whom is the EBTTM teacher certification program intended?
Certification for this evidence-based program may assist current teachers with expanding their business into medical/geriatric fields. This introductory program also includes what Dr. Yang believes to be the essential building blocks of efficient Taiji practice - material of interest to all serious Taiji students. The EBT program is designed to be a complete and efficient introductory program for persons of all ages and abilities. The training is therefore equally beneficial to those wishing to become instructors or those simply wishing to study an effective, efficient, and complete Taiji and Qigong program.Those interested in:
- offering an evidence-based program to expand their teaching opportunities; and
- receiving the teaching experience and support of Dr. Yang Yang and the Center for Taiji Studies in building their own business, or;
- simply studying Taiji and Qigong on a deeper level with an opportunity to receive personal instruction/feedback through the private testing with Dr. Yang
Application prerequisites and specific benefits of active certification are listed below.
EBTTM application prerequisites
Certification is based on proficiency. It is anticipated that experienced practitioners will achieve proficiency sufficient for certification more quickly than novices. However, there is no deadline for achieving proficiency. For this reason application to the EBTTM teacher certification program is open to all persons, regardless of experience. The only prerequisite is a willingness to put forth the time and effort to achieve a high level of skill (i.e. "gongfu") within a system that emphasizes quality and depth of ability and understanding as its primary mission. Long-time practitioners and absolute beginners benefit equally from all of Dr. Yang Yang's instruction.Space at various training events will often be limited by lodging availability, instruction room size, and other logistics. If capacity is anticipated to be exceeded, those currently teaching or planning to share the benefits of a traditional, evidence-based program with others will receive acceptance priority.
What are benefits of certification for instructors?
Active certification benefits include:- limited certification/licensure to teach Dr. Yang Yang's evidence-based traditional Taiji EBTTM curriculum. Certifications/licensure limitations are detailed at the bottom of this page.
- permission to use the title "CTS Certified Instructor" in advertising and promoting services
- promotion through the Center for Taiji Studies' web site and newsletter
- discounted wholesale prices for volume order CTS book, DVD, and music products
- inquiries received by the CTS for qualified teachers will be referred to the nearest certified instructors
- senior EBT instructors may conduct initial 40 hr EBTTM certification training events
What types or levels of certification are available?
Three levels of certification are offered:- Instructors in Training (IIT) - those that have been accepted into the EBTTM teacher training program
- Certified EBT Instructors (CIs) - those that have passed the proficiency exam and are current with re-certification requirements.
- Senior EBT Instructors (SIs) - those CIs that have continued study with Dr. Yang or other Senior Instructors and have demonstrated success in their teaching may be appointed by Dr. Yang as a Senior Instructor. Senior instructors may teach part of the training program, either in weekend seminars or in private classes with IITs.
What are the training requirements for teacher certification?
A. Minimum Training Hours
80 contact hours are required for EBT certification. You can proceed through the training at your own pace - there is no limit on how long you may practice before scheduling a proficiency test with Dr. Yang. Certification is performance based. Experienced taiji players may petition to test after the first 40 hours of training with Dr. Yang.B. Testing Requirements
Testing will consist of a written and performance-based exam with Dr. Yang. The testing can be done anytime that schedule allows, but we recommend at least three months practice following completion of training with Yang Laoshi.C. Re-certification Requirements
Recertification is a crucial aspect of quality control, and will be required every two years after initial certification. Recertification shall consist of:- Teaching experience - 80 hours minimum (over 2 years) plus letters of recommendation from clients demonstrating on-going successful classes;
and
- Continuing Education - 30 hours that can be fulfilled as follows:
a. At least 15 hours in programs/seminars/camps/trainings/workshops, etc., offered by The Center For Taiji Studies (or 75 hours of weekly classes at the CTS).
b. Self-directed study - up to 15 hours participation in other Taiji programs/seminars/trainings/workshops etc. offered by others outside of the Center for Taiji Studies (or 75 hours of weekly classes). Instruction from others outside of the CTS must be submitted for approval in advance.
or
- Sponsoring a CTS training event
CEUs
Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) will be available for the EBTTM training. Check back soon for a list applicable professions. Those wishing to acquire CEUs will be charged a $35 fee for costs of providing and administering the CEU program.When and where are the next EBTTM training events?
- The next week-long (40 hr) training event will be September 16-21, 2012, at the Blowing Rock Conference Center, Blowing Rock, NC. Complete information is provided below.
- Additional 30 hr training events will be conducted in 2012 at Esalen, Kripalu, and Omega Institutes. Check the seminar page listing for updates.
- Those not able to attend week-long training events but wishing to begin the EBTTM teacher certification program may contact us for the availability of weekend training with Senior EBT instructors.
Application Process
Three steps are required for enrollment. They must be completed in order:- Interested persons must first submit an application. Space is limited to ensure adequate training with Dr. Yang, so you are encouraged to apply early.
- If your application is accepted, you must complete registration and submit either a downpayment or full payment via check or money order within 2 weeks of notification of acceptance. The link above will open a waiver/license form agreement, which must be submitted before registration. After accepting the waiver/license agreement, you may then register with either the on-line or mail-in registration forms.
- Accepted applicants seeking certification must acquire the required materials before camp.
Required Materials
- Dr. Yang's Evidence Based Taiji (EBTTM)and Qigong DVD is an approximate 4-hour DVD that includes detailed instruction on material that will be covered in training.
- Taijiquan, The Art of Nurturing, The Science of Power is required reading. Material from the book will be part of the written examination.
- Elixir, Music for Moving and Still Meditation
Cost
1st 40 hours: $1050 plus meals and lodging. A $50 discount is available for early applicants.2nd 40 hours: $950 plus meals and lodging.
If 30 hour training events are offered at retreat locations, check with those locations for cost information.
Testing: Each private certification performance evaluation (45 minutes) with Dr. Yang will cost $150 (if tested in NYC, a $25/45 min studio renting fee is also applied).
Meal and lodging costs will be specific to each venue. Commuter rates may be available, depending upon location. Discount and refund policies and meal and lodging costs for the summer 2012 40 hr training event are detailed below.
Additional Information
You can email us with questions, or if you want to speak to a person call Scott at 347.989.3388.
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| 2007 EBT Group Photo |
40 hr Teacher Certification Training for Yang Yang's Evidence-Based Traditional Taiji (EBTTM)Program
Sunday, September 16 - Friday, September 21, 2012
What You Will Learn:
Dr. Yang Yang's EBT Program will be covered. Pedagogy and a summary review of Taiji and Qigong research will also be taught.What You Will Receive:
Participants at this 40 hr training will complete half of the minimum training required for proficiency testing. (Certification is performance-based, and some advanced practitioners or previous students of Dr. Yang Yang may petition to take the proficiency testing after 40 contact hrs with Dr. Yang.)Training Schedule
Sunday, September 16: check-in begins at 3:00, instruction from 6:00-9:00PMon-Thurs: 8:00 hours instruction/practice
Friday, Septermber 21: 6:30-8:00A and 9:00A-12:00P instruction/practice - check out by 3:00P
Logistics / Cost / Admission / Deadlines
Location:
Training will be held at Blowing Rock Conference Center, 1818 Goforth Road, Blowing Rock, NC,28605.Travel/Directions:
Directions to the site from Blowing Rock are available here.There is now a shuttle service from the Charlotte airport to Boone and Blowing Rock called Hickory Hop.
Meals:
Meals and snacks will be provided in the conference center cafeteria. Vegetarian options will be available. Dinner will be provided Sunday, August 14, and breakfast and lunch will be provided Friday, August 19.Lodging:
There are two options for lodging: cabins or the conference center lodge.The duplex cabins are comfortable and well-kept. Each has a small kitchen, dining area and living room with fireplace. There is a master bedroom with queen sized bed--ideal for couples--and a second bedroom with two singles and one bunk bed. There is a maximum capacity of 24 people in the cottages, and cottage spots are on a first come, first served basis.
Attendees will also have the option of staying in the lodge’s hotel-style rooms.
Click on Lodge or Cottages on the conference center website for pictures.
Tuition Cost:
Tuition: $1050 (40 contact hours), payable to the Center for Taiji Studies.Discounts: If downpayment is received before June 30, 2012, a $50 discount will be applied to tuition. An additional $50 tuition discount is available for any person attending the 2012 summer intensive training camp.
Lodging and Meal Cost:
The following costs are for the entire 5 day training period:- Cabins - $260
- Lodge - Single Occupancy - $495
- Lodge - Double Occupancy - $360 per person
- Commuter Rate (meals only) - $140
Application
Interested persons must first submit an application. Space is limited and early applicants will receive priority lodging in the Guesthouse (as opposed to a dorm room), so you are encouraged to apply early. The CTS reserves all rights in selecting applicants into the program.Registration/Tuition Deposit:
Registration and a $450 deposit are due two weeks after notification of acceptance. The application will be considered invalid if registration and a deposit are not received within two weeks of acceptance notification. Final payment is due by August 31, 2012. All paymanents must be by check or money order only and mailed to Center for Taiji Studies, 1408 Mayfair, Champaign, IL 61821.Registration and downpayment must be received by June 30, 2012 to receive a $50 tuition reduction. You may forward the $450 deposit with your registration anytime after June 30, 2012 to reserve your space at camp, but after that date you will not be eligible for the $50 tuition reduction.
You may register on-line or through the mail using the links below to registration forms. Please do not attempt to submit a registration unless you have received notification of acceptance.
On-line Registration: Click on the On-line Registration Form to open the waiver/license agreement. After agreeing to the waiver/license, the on-line regisration form will open with instructions. Complete and submit the form, AND follow subsequent links to submit payment via mail order.
Regular mail: Please download and complete the Mail Order Registration Form (an Adobe pdf document), and send it with your check or money order payable to Center for Taiji Studies to:
Center for Taiji Studies
1408 Mayfair
Champaign, IL 61821
You will receive confirmation of your registration status when your deposit is received.
Refunds/Deadlines:
If for any reason you must cancel your reservation, your deposit will be refunded, less a $35 application fee, until June 30, 2012. If you cancel after June 30, 2012, a 50% refund will be available until July 30, 2012. After July 30, 2012, no refund will be given.Non-Taiji Area Attractions:
Blowing Rock is one of the oldest tourist sites in NC, and there are many attractions in the area. The Blowing Rock.com web site contains links to area accommodations, attractions, recreation, arts, shopping, and more.There is also a Wikipedia article on Blowing Rock with links to Blowing Rock town web site and travel guides.
*The "Center for Taiji Studies" and "Dr. Yang's Evidence-Based Traditional Taiji (EBTTM) and Qigong Program" are trademarks of the Center for Taiji Studies (CTS). All rights reserved. Dr. Yang Yang's EBTTM program and methods of instruction are the unique product of his lifelong practice with top traditional masters of China, over 30 years of experience teaching Taiji & Qigong in China and America, and his research in mind/body wellness. The curriculum and methods of instruction constitute the valuable and proprietary intellectual property of Dr. Yang Yang and/or the CTS. Certification is entirely at the discretion of Dr. Yang Yang and/or the CTS and may be withheld or withdrawn at any time by Dr. Yang Yang and/or the CTS.
License/certification to teach Dr. Yang Yang's program, and to use CTS trademarks and/or servicemarks in advertising/promotion, is limited to: (1) instructors with current certification, and (2)the instructors' business operations that are independent of any third-party organization. Additional licensing, beyond instructor certification, is required to use Dr. Yang Yang's name and copyrighted materials to provide Taiji/Qigong instruction to any third-party organization .
Copyright © 2004-2011 by the Center for Taiji Studies.