Questioning is an important part of the learning process for the athletes/players that we coach. It encourages critical thinking and allows coaches to assess whether an athlete/player has understood a particular concept, and it can also help to build connection and a shared understanding. It is therefore the coach’s role to ask the right type of questions at the right time to gain relevant and high-quality answers.
Research suggests that coaches spend most of their time asking low level questions, questions to recall information and facts, such as “can you tell me what we were learning about today?” But when athletes/players are challenged with higher level questioning, they draw from their own experiences to formulate answers. Essentially their understanding becomes personalised and they are encouraged how to think rather than what to think.
When creating questions, the first question you should ask yourself is whether you need an answer.
UK Coaching Talent and Performance
About the Author:
The UK Coaching Talent & Performance team are passionate and committed to supporting coaches to maximise the potential of their athletes and themselves. The team have experience in coaching across all Talent and Performance environments, including First Selective Environments, Pathway programmes, Academies, Professional Clubs, National Age Group Squads and Senior International Teams. Our goal is to provide accessible and engaging support to guide and develop curious, independent, confident and reflective coaches.