Laura B TC Chapter 9 Summary

Laura B
Chapter Summary: This chapter goes more in depth about what virtues makes a master coach. The first virtue is described as the matrix, or the way they use their task-specific knowledge to allow them to respond to a student's efforts in a creative and effective way. A person with this virtue has the ability to take the learning deeper, because they have such a wide knowledge of materials to use and know how to use them. An example of this is the vocal coach, Linda Septien. After she lost her opera career she decided to explore the world of pop and spent countless hours studying everything about pop, from the way they sang to the way they moved and spoke. She then began teaching pop from her home and invented her own system of teaching through trial and error and through the knowledge she had obtained. Perceptiveness, or the ability to customize the way they communicate to fit each student's particular needs, is the second virtue. These coaches characteristically have eyes that are usually sharp and warm, focused on learning information about their students and figuring them out, and then monitor their responses to their teaching. The ability to give short, clear, and concise bits of direction is the third virtue of a master coach. The teacher directs the students' learning through these bits of information until they get it, and then they will quickly layer in added difficulty. This is so their success won't stop, but continue along the stepping stones they create. The fourth virtue is theatrical honesty. Not only do master coaches radiate a subtle theatrical air, but they recognize that moral honesty is at the core of the job. Depending on the skill, master teachers teach in different ways so that they can fire the correct circuits in the most effective way. Flexible-circuit skills, such as soccer or comedy, require that the learner navigate themselves along the ever-changing set of obstacles. Constant-circuit skills, such as playing violin, depends on a solid foundation of technique. Overall, good coaching supports the desired circuit.
Key Concept: Good coaching supports the desired circuit.
Key terms: Matrix, perceptiveness,  GPS reflex, theatrical honesty, flexible-circuit skills, consistent-circuit skills
Making connections: In order for me to eventually become a master coach, I need to acquire these four virtues described in the chapter. The one that stood out to me the most is perceptiveness, which I feel is especially important for voice teachers. As I spend more time watching my peers and critiquing their technique, my perceptiveness will improve. This will enable me to be more perceptive in my own body, as will as be able to more fully help others.