Have you ever thought about the complex and personal journey of learning how to coach effectively? Coaching is a multifaceted skill that evolves through various experiences and reflections. A recent paper presents a new theoretical perspective on how coaches learn, highlighting the importance of both structured and unstructured learning processes in a coach’s development. This perspective focuses on three key types of learning experiences: mediated, unmediated, and internal learning.
One of the key takeaways from this theoretical perspective is the recognition that coaches’ learning experiences are not solely dependent on formal education. While formal coaching courses and certification programmes provide valuable knowledge, many coaches find that their most significant learning occurs in real-world settings. This includes coaching practices, mentoring relationships, and reflective practice. At Mind-Gap, we emphasise that effective coaching development goes beyond structured programmes, it’s about creating a learning culture that allows coaches to reflect, adapt, and continuously improve.
Reflection plays a crucial role in a coach’s development. It allows coaches to integrate new learning, challenge existing beliefs, and refine their coaching strategies. This internal learning process helps coaches adjust their cognitive structures and adapt to new coaching situations. At Mind-Gap, we facilitate reflection in our leadership and coaching programmes, helping professionals enhance their coaching style and leadership strategies.
The paper also discusses the significant role of mentoring and peer support in coach development. Coaches often learn through informal conversations, shared experiences, and observing others. These unmediated learning experiences are invaluable in helping coaches refine their approach, build their confidence, and develop their own coaching philosophies. At Mind-Gap, we support businesses and individuals by creating opportunities for mentoring and peer learning, ensuring that coaches have access to diverse learning sources and a strong support network.
As the paper suggests, learning how to coach effectively is not just about structured learning, it’s about integrating both formal training and reflective practice. This new approach is essential for developing well-rounded coaches who are adaptable, reflective, and prepared for the challenges of coaching in the modern world.
To know more, sign up for our next cohort for ILM Level 5 Effective Coaching and Mentoring happening in June 2025, where you get to experience all of this. Through this training, we offer both structured and unstructured learning experiences:
- LMS Learning: Access to online digital platforms for learning at your own pace.
- Training Days: Four structured training days with reflection embedded into the sessions.
- Real-World Reflection: Opportunities for you to reflect on your coaching practice in real-world contexts, ensuring a deep and practical learning experience.
Link to register: https://www.mind-gap.co.uk/contact/
