The importance of feedback in learning

Posted In: ChiRunning November 13th, 2013 divider 2 Comments »

I still remember when I went to California to get certified as a ChiRunning instructor all those years ago. I thought I knew it all. Then I got some more info and some feedback so I could work on my technique. Boom, mind blown! I’ve been humbled and looking for some feedback ever since.

Getting someone experienced, a master instructor in this case, to look at you and provide some comments as to where you makes such an instant difference. It’s a shock at first but oh so useful if you take it and go home to work on it. Yes you want to point out mistakes but also reinforce all the good things being done to build confidence and a base.

I think video is a big part of this process these days. It’s hard to argue with the proof you see on tape, or digital footage as it is these days. Some people have tried but the video doesn’t lie!

I know it’s not easy to change and a lot of the time you think you’re doing everything pretty perfectly. Changing the arm swing is a great example. A lot of folks think they’re swinging wildly but when you show them the video, they are shocked. A great teacher, especially when I can do a split screen now and import a video from another runner to show the difference.

I even integrate feedback in other courses I teach, whether it’s online engagement or when I’m doing some media training. The days of learning from a blackboard or a book are numbered and I guess that’s one positive from technology. It’s much easier to learn from something interactive.

With this in mind, I’m doing a small group check in session before my next workshop on Sunday, November 24. I will review some of the principles and provide some individual feedback. I’m also bringing my Ipad so I can also send participants a video complete with verbal feedback so they know what to work on to perfect the technique.

I plan on doing these sessions every few months and I think people will really see the value in them. I sure have!