Terms & Definitions
Below are some useful terms and their general definitions used in classes and training programs. For specific information relevant to each training program, please consult that program's handbook under the page on training programs.
Active Teaching
Active Teaching consists of a minimum of three classes taught per year. This definition is used in Instructor Training and Advanced Instructor Training advising/supervising requirements. This definition does not apply to Instructor membership status.
Blended Phases and Advanced Classes
These are classes that specifically combine more than one Phase in a single class. Taught only by Associate Advanced Instructors (approved levels only) and Advanced Instructors. These classes will be credited as electives.
Co-Teach
Part of Instructor Training, Advanced Instructor Training, and the approval process to teach certain classes after becoming an Instructor. A Co- Teach includes all aspects of teaching the class. The trainee/Instructor is responsible for 50% of all aspects of teaching the class. If a trainee/Instructor teaches less than 50% of the class this would count as a Bench Assist instead of a Co-Teach.
Collaborative/Team Teach
Two instructors, neither of whom are in training, who are teaching together. The use of the term Co-Teach does not apply.
Consultations
Consultations are time that you arrange to spend with a SOBI registered instructor to discuss questions and concerns about any aspect of Ortho-Bionomy. Consultations augment your study of Ortho-Bionomy outside of classes. They are offered as a way to meet each student’s individual needs to become well rounded in their practice as they continue their training. Consultations may be done one-on-one or in a group setting with an instructor.
In Good Standing
Current member, dues paid, no grievances, signed trademark and Code of Ethics agreements on file. Instructor members also must have a signed Instructor/Board agreement on file.
In-Depth and Non-Standard Phase 4 Classes
These are classes for areas of the body that are based on more in-depth anatomy or methods that go beyond the standard material while still staying within Phase 4. These may be developed by the Instructor in their practice or learned elsewhere. These may be different based on the Instructor teaching them, yet all share the commonality of Phase 4 principles and techniques.
Observation/Bench Assist
Used in the Instructor and Advanced Instructor Training Programs, Bench Assisting is the first stage of learning to teach a class and can range from observation-only, assisting at tables during practice, or teaching demos during class.
Sessions for Evaluation
These are sessions that a trainee gives to a SOBI registered instructor to demonstrate their Ortho-Bionomy skills. The recipient provides feedback and a typed letter documenting the evaluation.
Sessions for Feedback
Sessions for feedback (initiated by the trainee) are required to be completed with a SOBI registered instructor. These sessions allow you to receive feedback on your work, separate from evaluation. It is helpful to have a session for feedback from more than one instructor. One feedback session must be with your training advisor.
Sessions Received
As part of the Tutorial requirement in training, receiving sessions helps you understanding and integrate what you have learned in class and what happens with a client, on the table and after.
SOBI Registered Instructors
A SOBI registered instructor is an Associate Instructor, Instructor, Associate Advanced Instructor, or Advanced Instructor of Ortho-Bionomy who is a current member of the Society of Ortho-Bionomy in good standing. To receive credit from SOBI, classes and training must be completed with SOBI registered instructors.
Standard Phase 4 Classes
Standard Phase 4 classes include Phase 4 Techniques for the major structures of the body that every instructor is responsible to know. Standard classes are Phase 4 Spine, Phase 4 Extremities, and Phase 4 Whole Body. Titles of Standard Phase 4 classes may differ and content may have some minor variation, but should be essentially the same in any Registered Ortho-Bionomy Instructor classroom. Standard Phase 4 classes may include Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar Spine; Ribs; Psoas; Ilium; Sacrum; Femur; Knee; Ankle; Foot; Shoulder; Elbow; Wrist; Hand.
Supervised Demonstration
Used in Practitioner and Advanced Practitioner training, a Supervised Demonstration is a lecture/presentation of Ortho-Bionomy given by a trainee and observed and documented by a Supervising Instructor.
Supervised Teach
An Ortho-Bionomy class presented by an Instructor trainee or Advanced Instructor trainee and supervised by a Supervising Instructor. During a Supervised Teach, a trianee is responsible for every aspect of the class.
Supervising Instructor
The Instructor who supervises a Supervised Demonstration, Bench Assist, Co-Teach, or Supervised Teach.
During Bench Assists and Co-Teaches the Supervising Instructor is ultimately responsible for the learning experience of the students in the class as well as for giving feedback to the trainee/Instructor who is doing the Bench Assist or Co- Teach.
After a Co-Teach to add a class, the Supervising Instructor determines if the Instructor is qualified to teach that class solo and if so, provides a letter of approval.
During a Supervised Teach the Supervising Instructor is completely in the role of observing a trainee's teaching, giving feedback outside of class, and writing an evaluation. During a Supervised Teach class credit is given to the students by the Supervising Instructor.
Tutorials
Tutorials are time spent with your advisor or a registered instructor that augment or supplement your study of Ortho-Bionomy and consist of:
- Sessions Received
- Sessions for Feedback
- Consultations
- Sessions for Evaluation
- Supervised Lecture/Demonstration
Unit
1 class unit is 1 hour (class units do not include lunches or homework but may include breaks)



