Cognitive coaching questions for teachers. A Coaching Guide to Asking Reflective Questions 2023-01-01

Cognitive coaching is a form of professional development that helps teachers improve their instructional practices and better support student learning. It involves a collaborative process in which a coach asks reflective questions and provides feedback to help the teacher understand their thought processes, decision-making, and problem-solving strategies. In this way, cognitive coaching helps teachers become more self-aware and self-regulated learners, which can ultimately lead to improved student outcomes.

One key aspect of cognitive coaching is the use of reflective questions. These questions are designed to help teachers think deeply about their teaching practices and the impact they have on student learning. Some common categories of reflective questions for teachers might include:

• Planning and preparation: These questions might focus on how teachers are designing and organizing their lessons, selecting instructional materials, and establishing learning goals. Examples might include:

• How did you decide on the content and structure of this lesson?

• What resources and materials did you use to plan this lesson, and why did you choose them?

• How do you envision students using the materials and resources provided in this lesson?

• Classroom management: These questions might focus on how teachers are establishing a positive and productive learning environment, managing student behavior, and promoting student engagement. Examples might include:

• How do you establish expectations for student behavior in your classroom?

• How do you respond when students are not following classroom rules or procedures?

• How do you promote student engagement in your lessons?

• Instructional strategies: These questions might focus on how teachers are delivering content and facilitating student learning. Examples might include:

• How do you introduce new content to your students?

• How do you encourage student participation and interaction during lessons?

• How do you assess student learning and provide feedback during lessons?

• Professional development: These questions might focus on how teachers are continuing to grow and improve their own teaching practices. Examples might include:

• How do you stay current on best practices in education?

• What professional development opportunities have you taken advantage of recently?

• How do you plan to continue growing as a teacher in the future?

Overall, the goal of cognitive coaching is to help teachers reflect on their own practices and identify areas for improvement. By asking thoughtful and targeted questions, coaches can help teachers develop a deeper understanding of their own thought processes and decision-making, leading to more effective and efficient teaching practices that ultimately benefit student learning.