How to Use Learning Style Questionnaires in Coaching

Coaches and athletic training personnel must strive to facilitate the learning style preferred by individual athletes. The use of a learning style questionnaire combined with feedback and group discussion is a useful method to provide effective training and motivation to team members. In addition, the answers provided by team members allow coaches and team managers to alter team practice intensity, duration and style while allowing coaches to focus on player strengths and weaknesses.

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate the form. Obtain this questionnaire from a training organization of service then read the form to ensure it covers several learning styles. Verify the existence of questions regarding visual learning (learning by watching a physical demonstration), verbal learning (learning by listening to verbal instruction) and group learning (learning alongside a peer group). If needed, alter the form to ensure it covers each of these learning styles. When reviewing the form, solicit feedback from senior coaching professionals and colleagues for insight on implementing learning styles in coaching practice.

    • 2

      Deliver the form. Develop several delivery formats for the questionnaire. For example, present the form as a handout during a team meeting or email the form to players prior to competition season or the academic school year. In addition, read the form aloud and solicit feedback for clarification during team meeting presentation. Redeliver the form as needed and use feedback questions to improve the questionnaire for future use.

    • 3

      Set a deadline. Consider giving the players pens so they can complete the questionnaire immediately. Request an honest personal evaluation. If needed, allow players to forward questions or issues through one-on-one or group meetings prior to the deadline date.

    • 4

      Adjust coaching methods. Evaluate the completed questionnaires and adjust coaching methods and style to meet the information captured by the form. For example, implement practice drills that combine both discussion and demonstration. Vary your training by including individual, pair and group work.