Instructor Training Challenge: Non-Verbal Directions

Name

Non-Verbal Directions

One-Liner

This challenge tests participants' ability to communicate and give feedback without using words, as well as to follow non-verbal cues from others.

Success Criteria

Participants successfully guide the group through a swimming activity or skill using only non-verbal communication, and the group correctly performs the task based on those cues.

Failure Criteria

The group is unable to understand or follow the non-verbal directions, or the leader resorts to speaking to correct behavior.

Core Skill

Non-Verbal Communication and Feedback

Who

This challenge is designed for swim instructors, lesson coordinators, or any aquatic professionals looking to improve their non-verbal teaching skills.

What

This is a challenge that tests the participants’ ability to communicate and give feedback without using words, as well as to follow non-verbal cues from others.

How

1. Have one person get the rest of the group to do a swimming activity or skill on land without speaking.
2. Have that person correct wrong group behavior with non-verbals like thumbs downs, head shaking, or physical adjustments.
3. Example: Everyone do three streamlines growing from the ground. Demonstrate, point, and give feedback with facial movements, hand gestures, etc.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

1. Participants might face difficulties in expressing or interpreting non-verbal signals that are clear, consistent, and respectful.
2. Participants might face difficulties in adjusting their body language and gestures to suit different situations and audiences.
3. Participants might face difficulties in maintaining eye contact, posture, and facial expressions that convey confidence and professionalism.