Coaching in the workplace

From the time I was introduced to organisational coaching, I've tried to use the characteristics of effective coaching in the work environment, more so in my previous role as an administrative manager and now in my role as an online course facilitator.

In 2006 I was given an opportunity to present on coaching in the workplace as a participant in a workshop on Instructional Techniques (see the above picture of me presenting). From the "get-go", I was intrigued by the topic as its focus was on bringing out the best in people.

It was based on this premise that I recently participated in a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on 'Coaching Teachers: Promoting Changes that Stick!' from Match Teacher Residency through Coursera. Indeed this new course was very interesting, relevant and rewarding to study. My favourite activity was the peer review in which I earned 23.5 / 24 points.

The takeaways that I use from the coaching courses and my experiences in the workplace hinge on the importance of the following:

- effective coaching (development bias, individual attention and caring);

- clarity of instructional vision;

- timely and constructive feedback and guidance;

- preparation and practice; and

- precise positives.

The Instructional Techniques Participant's Guide (2006, p. 51) sums up the main reason for my continued interest in the topic by stating that coaching at its best in the classroom results in transformational learning - the instructor becomes an inspiration, the learner is highly motivated to learn and the results exceed those initially expected. I feel privileged to help others with their ongoing learning while also learning from them.

References

Danis, D. (2006). Instructional techniques for classroom instructors and facilitators [Participant's guide].

Gutlerner, O. (2006). Coaching Teachers: Promoting Changes that Stick! [PDF documents]. Retrieved from:https://www.coursera.org/learn/coaching-teachers/