How to Coach Yourself and Others How To Perform On The Job Coaching | Page 153
Asking Good Questions
Questions help to get the coach and trainee talking. If asked appropriately, questions make the
learner think and participate.
There are two types of questions: open-ended and closed-ended. Each leads to a different response.
1. Closed-Ended Questions
● Usually result in a straight yes or no answer.
● Begin with do, is, can, could, would, should, will, or shall.
Example: Do you know how to bring this vehicle under control if it starts to slide?
What are your concerns regarding the use of this type of question?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Is there a better way to ask this question?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
2. Open-Ended Questions
● Help evaluate trainee understanding and establish strengths and concerns of the trainee.
● Begin with how, why, when, where, what, who, which, or if.
Example: What would you do to bring this vehicle to a stop if it started into a slide?
What are your concerns regarding the use of this type of question?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Write an open-ended question below.
_____________________________________________________
Closed-ended questions should be avoided as much as possible.
They do not lead to interaction or enhance learning.
Open-ended questions should be encouraged. They provide additional details, examples, and
impressions.
Translate these closed-ended questions into open-ended ones.
1. Do you know how to operate this type of machine?
_____________________________________________________
2. Do you know what fluids this system uses?
_____________________________________________________
3. Should you inspect the tires as part of the preoperational check?
_____________________________________________________
4. Could you use different types of oil in that gear case?
_____________________________________________________
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