For Karate Instructors: The Art Of Effective Feedback In Class
If you want to become a successful and influential instructor, you will have to become a master of not only the martial arts but also of interpersonal skills with your students. The Art of Effective Feedback will become a cornerstone of your relationships with your students and of the ultimate success of your students within your program. Practice this advice and reap the benefits, ignore it at your peril!
Be sure to give feedback to students in the class on a regular basis. Try to make all feedback either positive or constructive, and avoid any negative feedback if possible. Negative feedback should only be used as a last resort when there are behavioral issues, rather than issues of poor technique; and even then, there are steps you should take before resorting to negative feedback.
Positive feedback is obvious. Comments such as that was a great kick, nice stance, thats the best Ive seen you do that kata (form), you really looked like you were trying hard in sparring today go a long way towards creating a positive atmosphere and a comfortable environment in which to learn.
When you add...