Defining Effective Coaching Practices to Support Teachers and Improve Student Outcomes

This tip sheet outlines four research-based coaching practices that have been linked to improved teaching and learning when used within a recursive and job-embedded coaching cycle. The practices include alliance strategies (also known as relationship-building strategies), observing, modeling, and providing performance feedback. By understanding these practices and how they fit in the coaching cycle, coaches and those who train or support them can strengthen implementation of effective instructional strategies and ultimately improve student outcomes.