Become The Learner
- Author
- Phil Cowley
- Published
- Fri 20 Jun 2025
- Episode Link
- https://instructor-training.captivate.fm
- Episode Theme:
- Stepping into the learner’s role to sharpen your instructor skills, and practical tactics for easing driving-related anxiety.
- Why Play Learner?
- Gain fresh perspective on your own training style
- Spot best (and worst) teaching habits to adopt or ditch
- Try something outside your comfort zone—gym theory, workshops, etc.
- On-the-Move vs Pullover Corrections:
- If safe and the student can process, correct as you go
- If they’re distracted or the situation is complex, pull over for focused feedback
- Proactive Support Level:
- Give clear options (“I’ll prompt you for the next three starts…”) instead of “Jump in if I’m wrong”
- Use scales or student-chosen checkpoints to quantify confidence
- Managing Driving Anxiety (3 Pillars):
- Physical Tension (arms/shoulders) → “Lower your suitcases” relaxation drill
- Racing Heart → “Smell flowers / blow bubbles” breathing
- Frozen Feeling → ABC technique (Acknowledge–Build evidence–Calm strategies)
- Quick Wins:
- Reframe “anxiety” as “uncomfortable” for more control
- Use scaling (1 = Zen guru…10 = straightjacket) to track progress
- Offer word banks or flash-cards to help students label feelings
- Takeaway:
- Continual CPD gives you a toolbox of techniques—mix and match them to meet each learner’s needs.
