Our Slogan has always been “Don’t teach Courses – Teach People” And throughout my life, I have been very successful as a PADI Instructor because I have followed this practice. My students have learnt quickly, efficiently and have remained motivated because my focus has been directed at each and every person, regardless of different personality types in the class.
Last Friday, I taught a group of experienced PADI Instructors how I did this. The day was packed with tips and suggestions on how to keep each student focused from the time that you first meet them right through their entire diving life.
NLP stands for Neuro Linguistic Programming. But of course the real question is: “Why is the choice of words that we use so important when we’re teaching?”
We all know that all top sportsmen use visualisation techniques to achieve their highest achievements. On Friday, we looked at some simple techniques to get your students to imagine themselves successfully reaching their goals. This makes your teaching incredibly effective and efficient. At the same time, the new diver remains focused and inspired.
PADI Course Director says, “I love teaching my NLP for Scuba Instructors course because I can take instructors who are already competent and capable and improve their performance. I get energised myself when coaching experienced instructors because we fire each other up with ideas to increase our teaching ability.
In-water coaching session
“Talking theoretically about different ideas in the classroom is one thing. But it’s important to practice these new skills in our in-water coaching session because instructors get to try out their new methods and they have to “re-program” themselves before trying out the techniques on real student divers.”
Tracy, Geoff, Istvan and Darren are all smiles at the end of a successful in-water coaching session.