miranadobe
Posted : 10/2/2010 11:34:28 PM
Advice? In this context, just observe and take notes. Don't offer comments/ suggestions while the class is running, because likely your method of training something might have been different (maybe even better! 
) but the place you're working for may have specific reasons why they choose to do it that way. Ask the question after the class, privately, so you have the best understanding of why they choose a method, or set of phrases, or whatever.
Most apprentice trainers don't get paid, so consider this a great opportunity to get paid while you learn their methods. 
As the time progresses, realize that training a dog privately on your own (even/especially shelter dogs that may not belong to you, but don't have owners present) is a whole lot different than the work that goes into presenting a structured class for dogs with owners. Identify which types of classes you'll be working toward (probably both) and look for the things you would need to stop yourself and explain to an observing owner about what and why you're training something specific for that dog. It can be exhausting to do that much AND talk that much!! lol You will eventually develop a routine that helps remind you what you want to say at critical junctions in the training, etc.
As for books about dog behavior, I find Brenda Aloff's "Canine Body Language - A Photographic Guide" to be useful. It's not cheap (about $40), but Dogwise.com has it and delivers it pretty fast if you can't find it (or get it ordered from) your local Barnes & Noble.
I'm sure others will pop in shortly, but those are some thoughts off the top of my head. Congratulations!!