Photo by Courtney Cook on Unsplash
Much is made about the importance of applied learning, universities are expected more than ever to prepare students for the workplace by facilitating learning through experience, in ‘real world’ contexts. This exposure to the messy, dynamic reality of action requires the ability to use knowledge that has perhaps previously remained in the classroom or indeed in the brain, as theoretical knowledge. Often the added layer imposed by human interaction can make it really difficult to put theory into practice, learning in this way can be a frustrating process. However, with perseverance and guidance it can also be hugely powerful and not only for the learner.
I am fortunate to run a golf coaching module as part of our BSc Applied Golf Management Studies (AGMS) degree, which runs in the spring/summer term. The students spend some time in the classroom thinking about different aspects of coaching, understanding and critiquing existing theories and approaches, whilst planning their own programme of coaching for a member of the public. They then embark on a 6-week series of lessons, working in groups of three, rotating the lead coach for each session but reflecting and planning as a group. This activity is supported by two mentors: myself as an experienced coach developer and by a PGA professional. The idea being that help is on hand around the technical and tactical side of golf as well as the pedagogic, socio-psycho elements of coaching.
I wish to share one of the many positive outcomes from working with AGMS students on this module, not only to acknowledge the learning and development that I see in them as coaches and people, but to celebrate the impact of their work. Below is a letter of thanks from one of the golfers, which is testament to the ability of these students to apply theory, skilfully manage human interaction, act upon reflections and work as a team. What more could we ask for?!
“I felt that I had to write to you [the student coaches] having completed what has been a series of tremendously enlightening experiences for me. I had never thought of golf as a sport I would like to take up, and in fact I have often been outright dismissive of the idea. However, the way you embraced the task of coaching a total novice, opened up this fantastic possibility for me.
For someone who values physical activity and skill as much as I do, the loss of my balance and the gradual deterioration of my injured knees have changed my personality and the confidence that I always had in my demeanour. The task of learning to be outdoors whilst doing something so demanding and skilful as golf is, has renewed my hopes that I can lead a lifestyle that I enjoy for a long time to come.
The skill involved in golf that you helped me become familiar with, is a lot more complex and challenging that I ever imagined. Knowing what I know now, actually makes me feel like a fool for previously thinking of golf as “sport” for wealthy middle-aged people who have nothing better to do with their time and bodies. The realisation of the long road ahead before I can comfortably play without having to think of every aspect of my swing is obvious, but during the journey your words will accompany me to become a better player. Those “light-bulb” moments that you all gave me with your advice will take time to put in the right sequence, but they will be what I am thinking every time I hold a club.
Today! Oh well, I can only describe today as a character-building exercise. Thank you for your patience and for your kindness. Much as I was disappointed not to be able to make my range progress more evident on the course, I thoroughly enjoyed it and the few good shots that I managed were as sweet as it gets.
Thank you for your tuition and for being a fantastic group. You have made an impact in my life that I doubt that you can comprehend.
Thank you and good luck with whatever comes next after university.”
P.F.Garner@bham.ac.uk