The 3Ps: A tool for coach observation

Abstract

There is growing recognition of the value of “in situ” coach development practice across a variety sporting contexts. Unfortunately, however, there remains a limited number of tools available with which to observe coaching practice. In this study, we pilot and test a quasi-systematic tool for observation in the form of the 3Ps. Drawing on a range of representational perspectives, the theoretically neutral labels of “procedure”, “planning”, and “process” were developed for the purpose of holistic observation. In order to test the tool, a group of experienced coach development practitioners (n = 10) integrated the tool into their practice over a 12-month programme of professional development. Those participants subsequently took part in semi-structured interviews, in which they expressed a strong sense of acceptability, perceiving effectiveness and positive opportunity cost. We propose that the 3Ps tool presents a holistic and practically useful means of observing coaches’ professional judgment and decision making. We also suggest future directions for the researcher who seeks to generate evidence in a naturalistic coaching context.

The adaptable coach – A critical review of the practical implications for traditional and constraints–led approaches in sports coaching: A commentary

“…With respect to contemporary Representation-based theories (e.g. Cognitive Load Theory 63,64 ), although some general guidelines have been presented, 65,66 coaches would benefit from a more detailed pedagogical framework grounded in sporting examples.…”

Skill execution errors: an “it depends” perspective on their role, type and use when coaching for player development in sport

“…It posits that the dynamic interaction between physical or movement attributes ('the 'bio'), psychological skills and attitudes (the 'psycho') and the environment in which a player participates (the 'social') produces a more powerful explanation of coaching and learning effects than when addressing these factors in isolation (Bailey et al, 2010;Collins & MacNamara, 2018). Given its consideration towards a wide range of domains (i.e., sport), contextual and individual factors, the 'it depends' understanding of player development and coaching expertise aligns with the biopsychosocial model (Collins et al, 2022;Taylor et al, 2023) and, as such, we consider these multi-factorial considerations as fundamental to utilising errors for holistic development in sport.…”