One of the most important aspects of taking a lesson is successful communication and understanding of ideas and information between teacher and student. It does no good if the instructor is very knowledgeable, yet unable to successfully communicate with the student. Imagine being given a lesson in a foreign language…wouldn’t be the best way to learn, although you might pick up a few things here and there.
“Successfully communicate” means that the student fully understands what is being taught, and is able to process and utilize the information to help their game. One of the most important thing an instructor can do is to communicate with you in your preferred learning style. Most people agree that their are three key learning styles that most people utilize.
Auditory learners need to be told the information. They do best when given a verbal explanation
Kinesthetic learners need to feel what the movement is. These folks do really well with training aids and hands-on instruction that involves movement and positioning.
Visual learners need to see the proper action or movement. They like to be shown what a swing or technique looks like. “Let me see you swing” is a common request during a visual learners lesson.
Many people do best in one of these categories, yet utilize all three. If you find yourself in the middle of a lesson, and don’t seem to be grasping the information, ask for the instructor to try another angle. A good instructor can relate the same concepts to you in a number of ways. Top notch instructors will develop a pretty good idea of your learning style very quickly, just from listening to you talk about your game.
Find someone that communicates in your preferred style, and you’ll improve much quicker.
Until next time…