Whisper Coaching Method for Education
Whisper coaching in education is a type of coaching where a coach provides real-time, in-the-moment feedback to a teacher during a lesson, often by whispering instructions or suggestions. The coach’s guidance is intended to help the teacher improve their practice and student engagement in the moment, without interrupting the flow of the lesson for the students.
Here’s a more detailed look at whisper coaching:
How it works:
- Real-time feedback: The coach observes the lesson and, when appropriate, subtly provides feedback to the teacher, often by whispering or using hand gestures.
- Focus on improvement: Coaching is focused on helping the teacher make adjustments to their lesson delivery or student engagement strategies.
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Minimal disruption:The goal is to provide guidance without disrupting the students or the flow of the lesson.
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Examples:(Use only if attention does not divert to the Coach and prior relationship has been established). A coach might whisper to a teacher, “Can you rephrase that question to be more precise?” or “Try calling on a different student who hasn’t participated yet”
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Hand gestures:Coaches may also use hand signals or other subtle cues to guide the teacher, according to Two Writing Teachers.
Benefits of whisper coaching:
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Immediate feedback: The teacher receives guidance in the moment, allowing for immediate adjustments to the lesson.
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Improved student engagement: The coaching can help teachers make adjustments that improve student engagement and participation.
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Reduced disruption: Whisper coaching is less disruptive to students than more overt coaching methods.
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Supports teacher growth: The coaching can help teachers learn new strategies and improve their teaching practice.
When to use whisper coaching:
- During a lesson: The coach can observe the lesson and provide feedback when the teacher reaches a natural stopping point or when there is a need for immediate adjustment.
- When addressing specific instructional gaps: The coach can use whisper coaching to address specific areas where the teacher needs support, according to Madera Unified School District.
- With teachers of all experience levels: Whisper coaching can be used with both novice and experienced teachers.
For Further Study:
Madera Unified School District Whisper Coaching Method Handout Whisper_CoachingMaderaSchools
Roberts, M. (2024). The Behaviour Whisperer: 100 ways teachers can communicate to improve their students’ focus in the classroom. Taylor & Francis. Google Books.
Content originated from Google Gemini generative ai and edited by Dr. Teague
