Most people would choose to be trained by a subject-matter expert (SME). For example, if you would like to train people on aerodynamics, you would like your teacher to have a Ph.D. on the subject, has conducted research that has been published in juried journals, and has received awards in their specialty.
I have a contrary recommendation: If you want to learn a specific subject, avoid hiring an SME. Instead, select an average person in the field.
Let me persuade you with an example: Let’s assume that you want to learn the Kpelle language because you are going to Liberia.
Who would you prefer to teach you?
A reputed linguist who has published a comparative lexicon of West African languages
A typical native Kpelle speaker
I would prefer the second choice.
How would you like this person to teach you?
Let them teach you the way they want.
Ask them to conduct a typical conversation in Kpelle, focusing on questions and requests.
Once again, I would prefer the second alternative.
Why am I against subject-matter experts? Here are some reasons why SMEs don’t make good teachers:
They have a tendency to focus on the theoretical background. They are not particularly interested in the practical application of what they are teaching.
They believe there is one correct procedure to be followed. They ignore and scorn other approaches.
They overspecialize on a specific area.
They focus on presenting content, not on providing practice and feedback.
They lack empathy for the concerns you have as beginning learners.
They have high standards for what they want their learners to achieve. They do not tolerate sloppy work and short cuts, even though they produce acceptable results.
When reacting to your responses, they frequently lose their patience.
They have lost their ability to use plain language to communicate with their learner. They insist on jargon and precise terminology.
They dazzle you with their proficiency. This makes you anxious about your ability to ever being able to achieve this level of perfection.
To summarize my gripes, SMEs let the best interfere with the adequate.