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Over the years I've worked as an academic coach, I've continually sought to broaden my knowledge of coaching and of learning assistance more largely. Through the work as well as professional development opportunities, we coaches can challenge our thinking, bringing new ideas and greater conceptual understanding to the work over time. But many, even most, of our coachees perceive learning support differently (and usually less positively). Meeting them where they are, even as we grow as coaches, is a practice.
In a recent first-time coaching session, a student shared that their conception of learning assistance was a big part of why they had not sought support earlier. They noted that in high school, tutoring was seen as a last resort, a choice for students who were failing. For them, that perception had persisted into college. This conversation sparked insights for me. I had not thought about how wide the gap is between how learning assistance is perceived in high school versus college. It often takes effort to help students see support, and those of us who provide it, as productive and valuable.
As you encounter new students this summer or prepare for an influx in the fall, consider the practice of noticing new students' perception of learning assistance. Asking questions like these can give you insights as to where a coachee's perception lies, so that you can more effectively help them bridge any gap that exists:
- How do you perceive tutoring and coaching? How do you perceive students who use these services?
- If you have ever used any type of learning support, what were the circumstances?
- What do you know about coaching?
- When has help from someone made a positive difference in your learning and academic performance?
- How do you think about studying and learning alone vs. with others?
- What assumption do you have about getting help with learning? How does it affect how you operate as a student?
- What type of learning support service would you be willing to try, and to evaluate?
Even as we repeat the practice of encountering learners as yet uninitiated in the power of coaching, continuing our own growth will always serve the practice. Join LifeBound for a growth opportunity this summer.
Explore which course is right for you at www.lifebound.com.
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