Cooperation/Partnering:
Since Aikido techniques are based on the direction of the attack/force and since there are so many Aikido techniques to use when the force changes, we must learn the basic techniques individually before we can use the entire repertoire in response to a changing attack. In order to learn the individual techniques, one must practice giving and reacting to the correct energy. That is why it sometimes seems like Aikido students are too cooperative. One can always frustrate a beginning student by giving the correct energy for the technique being taught then changing that once the defense is started, or not giving the proper energy in the first place. As uke, we have a role to play, and that role is determined by the Sensei and the technique being taught. Once a student masters the basic techniques, which can address any energy direction, then the games can begin and nage and uke can begin to experiment. But experimenting too soon is detrimental to the class and the student's progress. Also, do not be afraid to exert your position too soon - I am a firm believer in nipping any unwanted behavior in the bud.

"What if" Topic:
Have your students hold their questions until after they have practiced the technique you have taught. The what-if question hopefully was answered in the above paragraph, as well.

Use of Force:
One of the best ways to explain the problem with using force is to explain the following: Try doing a kote-gaeshi the aikijutsu way (using a big wrist turn out) and explain how long it takes for the technique to become effective (how long it takes for the uke to begin to move by the technique) and also how dangerous it can be (breaking of the wrist, elbow, arm, shoulder, etc). Then demonstrate our way of doing a kote-gaeshi - how we take out the slack by curling the fingers toward uke's own wrist and back toward our one point. When we move just one inch after we have taken out the slack, uke hastens to the mat -- but with the other way we have to move 6-8 inches before uke moves even an inch. Thus, the softer way is safer and more effective.

Maintaining Equilibrium:
You must practice what you teach. Always Ki Breath - I believe it is the essence of this art and will ensure that you can overcome/blend with any resistance that you are required to face. I suggest at least 20 minutes a day and more, if possible. And realize that you will always have some students that will test your authority and patience - sometimes you may have to warn a student and then dismiss the student if he/she is too disruptive. Remember, this is your dojo and you are the Sensei - you are taking your time to share knowledge that your students want. You may also want to provide student guidelines in a handout that express the rules of the dojo and instructional process.

I was just thinking of something the other day that I am going to say to students. It goes like this: If you have a comment, please feel free to express it and I will let you know if it fits within the style we are teaching, if it does not -- let's put it on the back burner.

Sensei Singer