Which coaching technique promotes active learning through exploration and discovery?

The guided discovery technique is designed to engage athletes in active learning by encouraging them to explore and discover answers on their own. This coaching method facilitates critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as athletes are prompted to investigate concepts, make decisions, and arrive at conclusions through personal experience rather than simply receiving information from the coach.

In a guided discovery approach, the coach may ask open-ended questions or present scenarios that require the athlete to analyze the situation and consider various solutions. This technique fosters independence and self-awareness, enabling athletes to internalize their learning, develop a deeper understanding of skills, and apply them more effectively during competition.

In contrast, other techniques such as demonstrative and verbal methods focus more on providing information or showing how to execute a skill, which does not inherently promote the same depth of engagement and self-discovery. The direct instruction technique involves telling athletes exactly what to do and may lead to less opportunity for exploration. Consequently, guided discovery stands as the most effective choice for promoting active learning through exploration.