Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >
Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >Coaching may feel like a buzzword, a catch-all phrase used to describe help provided to individuals or groups. It is often interchanged with words like mentoring, technical assistance and consulting. But what is it and why is it important to early childhood education (ECE) systems throughout the commonwealth?
| Technical Assistance | The Coach Approach |
|---|---|
| Provides information, advice, and training | Supports the person in dealing with a challenge |
| Used when teaching a best practice or explaining a policy | Used when asking a question with more than one possible answer |
| Focuses on the growth and development of the person | The person being supported drives this in partnership with the coach |
| Skill is KNOWING | Skill is NOT KNOWING |
| Focus on THE SITUATION | Focus on THE PERSON |
Coaching values the knowledge, skills and desired goals of the ECE professional and supports them in moving towards sustainable change. Skills in the classroom can have a positive impact on child outcomes, program quality and family connections. The Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) is committed to supporting professional development opportunities, based on the latest research regarding adult learning and practice development.
Rasheeda Coston
rascos@pakeys.org
Barb Willier
barwil@pakeys.org