EDF2602 - Coaching

Leader: Dr J O'Connor

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

This unit explores contemporary theories and practical techniques associated with coaching for sport and outdoor recreation. Students engage in planning, instructing and evaluating coaching sessions using a variety of instructional models that may include direct, tactical, games sense and exploration approaches. Some motor learning and control theories are discussed and applied together with an exploration of the broader coaching and instruction literature.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Recognise the characteristics of an effective coach.
2. Examine the advantages and disadvantages of various coaching styles.
3. Develop and communicate a personal coaching philosophy.
4. Clarify personal coaching objectives.
5. Explain how coaching practice relates to different theories associated with skill acquisition and motor learning and control.
6. Develop an outline for a yearly, through to sessional plan, in a particular activity incorporating assessment and evaluation of strengths and weaknesses.
7. Demonstrate knowledge of psychological concepts that influence athlete preparation and performance.
8. Apply these theoretical concepts and demonstrate practical skills (Athletics, Major Games).

Students will successfully instruct a group of peers to achieve stated teaching objectives by:

1. Writing a clear session plan with appropriate objectives that are specific, observable and achievable.
2. Following a clear instructional format aligned with appropriate pedagogy.
3. Providing instruction that incorporates appropriate direction, demonstration, progression, game sense and feedback.
4. Utilising space, voice, equipment, questioning and appropriate activities to facilitate learning.
5. Effectively managing groups (time management, transitions, discipline) so that maximum opportunity for practice and learning occurs.
6. Demonstrating safe practices that minimise the risk of injury to participants.

In meeting these objectives, students will:

1. Facilitate the development of fundamental Motor Skills associated with a sport or activity (Athletics)
2. Facilitate the development of transitional Skills leading to the refinement and integration of motor skill performance
3. Facilitate the development of sport specific skills associated with a sport or activity (Athletics)
4. Utilise and experience a variety of teacher centred and student centred techniques including direct, game sense, tactical games approach, play practice and spectrum of teaching styles.

Assessment

Examination 75% (3000 words equivalent)
Coaching Practical Assignment 25% (1000 words)
Attendance at 80% of Practical Classes
Field Experience (where applicable)

Contact hours

3 hours per week