IMPLEMENTING EXPERTISE-BASED TRAINING METHODS TO ACCELERATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF PEER ACADEMIC COACHES

The field of expertise studies offers several models from which to develop training programs that accelerate the development of novice performers in a variety of domains. This research study implemented two methods of expertise-based training in a course to develop undergraduate peer academic coaches through a ten-week program. An existing training curriculum was enhanced by implementing results gleaned from a preliminary expert performance study, in which the superior, reproducible performance of seasoned professionals (counselors and academic advisors working with undergraduate students at a large Midwestern research university) was analyzed. Part-task, observational training activities were created for the expertise-based (XBT) training group while whole-task, simulation-based activities were created for the expert performance based (ExPerT) training group. Trainee performance in four targeted skill sets (asking questions, reflective listening, noticing reactions, and providing feedback) indicated few significant differences between the XBT and ExPerT training groups. The ExPerT group demonstrated a greater number of evocative statements, aimed at helping coaching clients change behaviors. Overall, the utility of the expert performance approach in developing training in various domains is promising, particularly if an appropriate balance of part-task and whole-task training activities can be found.