Coaching Generates Ideation and Agency

Through history, many generations of students experienced education largely as a set of instructions that they were instructed to follow. But changing times bring changing needs -- both in what to learn and in how it is acquired. The groundbreaking work of Edward Deci and Richard Ryan in the 1980s brought self-determination theory to the table. Deci and Ryan held that motivation was most effectively driven by autonomy, competency, and relatedness to others. SDT has been confirmed by over 100 studies and is a significant foundation for coaching practice. 

Coaches can use the power of words to move away from the prescriptive, instructive style of the past -- telling students "This is the best way to..." or "You should..." -- and into words that drive intrinsic motivation through the generation of agency. This doesn't mean that the coach cannot make a suggestion. The coach's choice of words has the power to deliver such an idea in a way that encourages the student to decide whether and how to use it. Package your ideas in words that empower the student:

• What would it look like to use [idea/strategy]?

• I invite you to consider [idea/strategy] and share your thoughts.

• What do you think of how [idea/strategy] may address the issue?

• How have you experienced [idea/strategy] before?

• Where might [idea/strategy] fit into your plans?

Learn more about the powerful language of coaching at a LifeBound training! Register now for our Three-Day Inclusive Coaching class on May 5, 12 and 19.