Adults “Just Wanta Have Fun”

Cindy Lopper sung a song “Girls Just Wanta Have Fun”.  The same is true for adults.  They play tennis because they “Just Wanta Have Fun”.  They take lessons for the same reason.  As a tennis professional you have to know how adults learn so they can have fun.  Lets take a look at some of these key elements:

1. Experience is how they learn best. They want to know how but mostly they want to do it.  Get them involve in doing quickly.
2. They learn when they see a need. Determine what their goals are and capitalize on their desire to meet that goal. Be positive with them and encourage them to step outside the box.
3. Self directed learning is the best. Don’t tell them what you know, help them learn how they best learn and how they can direct their own learning about the game. Provide feedback so they can adjust their actions.
4. Age and experience are key factors in how, when and why they learn. Adjust your teaching to where they are in their life and learning style.
5. “Just like” - because of their experiences they can pick up on things that are just like other things they already do in life and work.  Help them see how they already know how to.

Not everyone learns the same way and adults often learn different from children.  Be aware of teaching to the needs and level of your students not just how you like to teach.

Photo Credits: yonghokim

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This post involves:

coaching adults, coaching tennis, experiences, learning style, self directed learning, teaching adults, tennis, tennis practice

... and focuses on:

Coaching, Practice, Tennis Tips

Posted by Ken DeHart on May 10, 2010 in Coaching, Practice, Tennis Tips. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.