Shape the Environment
How small changes to the game create better learning.
The faces say it all!
When something is not working in a training session, many coaches respond in the same way. They stop the activity. Then they explain what players should do differently. Sometimes this helps. But often there is another option.
Instead of talking more, the coach can change the environment.
The Environment Influences Behaviour
In sport, behaviour is strongly shaped by the environment. If the playing area is large, athletes behave one way. If the space becomes smaller, behaviour changes. Without going in to discussions about dynamical systems theory or ecological psychology, we implicitly know this when we see dogs at a refuge or pound.
““The caged bird sings with a fearful trill, of things unknown, but longed for still.” ”
In sport, if the number of players changes, decisions change. If time pressure increases, the pace of the game changes. Small adjustments to the environment can create entirely new learning situations.
Coaching Through Design
Instead of relying on long explanations, coaches can shape learning by adjusting simple elements of the game For example, a coach might change:
• the size of the space
• the number of players
• the rules of the activity
• the amount of time available
These adjustments create new challenges that players must solve. Learning begins to emerge through the game itself.
The Game Becomes the Teacher
When the environment changes, the game begins to guide behaviour. Players adapt. They move differently. They notice new opportunities. They experience pressure in new ways.
Instead of being told what to do, they discover solutions.
The Role of the Coach
This approach does not remove the coach. It changes the role of the coach. The coach becomes a designer of learning environments. They observe what is happening, make small adjustments and allow the game to reveal new problems for players to solve.
A Different Kind of Intervention
Sometimes the most effective coaching intervention is not another explanation. It is a small change to the environment that allows the game to teach.
Part of the Coaching is Teaching Series
• Coaching is Teaching
• What Do You Notice?
• Hook ’Em In
• Start With the Game
• Let Them Explore
• Shape the Environment
• Coaching Behaviour Matters
• Keeping Kids in Sport
If you are interested in deeper learning, I will be releasing a learning design course soon.