Competences – 21cc-action

21st century competences for coaches

In general, The 21st century skills are well-known concept, but it is not defined which of these competences are especially suitable for VET coaches. In the 21cc project we did detailed research on these competences and defined the six most important competences areas for VET coaches. These competences and their performance indicators are available on this page as a starting point for your learning to become a coach or a better coach. They will also serve as a basis for the self-assesment tool that is available at this personal action plan site.

1. Critical thinking, problem solving and decision making

1.1 Different coaching/teaching style

I am able to adapt my coaching/teaching method in order to keep students engaged and challenged
I am able to apply my theoretical knowledge in real life situations
I am able to be flexible in using a new method to coach/teach

1.2 Problem solving

I am able to detect/realize problems in the (learning-)process
I am able to point out different ways to solve the problem
I am able to find effective solutions to the problem

1.3 Workplace Adaptability

I am able to keep my practices up to date and relevant for my VETs (related innovations, new technologies, new coaching theories )
I am able to respond quickly to changing ideas, responsibilities, expectations, trends, strategies and other processes.
I am able to process interpersonal, communication, creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

2. Workplace and education ethics

2.1 Integrity/Inclusivity

I am able to prevent disrespectful behavior in my environment taking the appropriate measures or necessary steps to achieve this
I am able to ensure that everyone feels valued and importantly in the team
I am able to value the opinions of others and strive to promote positive interactions that show demonstrate respect.

2.2 Responsibility

I am able to be responsible of all aspects of my job as a coach
I am able to produce quality results in the workplace

2.3 Tolerance/patience

I know the value to accept constructive criticism and I don’t take it personally
I know the value in learning experiences and work hard to achieve goals, even if they take longer

3. Communication and collaboration

3.1 Provide clear and constructive feedback

I am aware of the value of regular feedback
I am able to give feedback that is based on objective standards, is goal oriented and is geared towards positive action
I am able to authentically communicate values and standards (oral + writing)
I am able to provide encouraging feedback understanding what the speaker means, respecting their opinion, and keeping an open mind

3.2 Effective communication

I am able to use language that is suitable and understandable to the audience
I am able to speak clearly, concisely, and without misinterpretation (Oral communication)
I am able to writing emails, drafting a report, communicating with students/schools via email (Written communication)
I am able to listen actively the speaker/stakeholder and try to understand/accept the problems raised by stakeholders
I am able to remove all other distractions and asking clarifying questions, to make them heard
I am able to communicate with other actors in a positive, goal-oriented way

3.3 Collaboration between student-teacher-coach

I am able to help solve learning tasks in cooperation with the trainers and the training center

4. Leadership

4.1 Inspire and motivate others

I am able to provide a vision and purpose
I am able to set clear goals
I am able to lead by example

4.2 Inspire, respect and loyality

I am able to communicate with the team
I am able to empower team members

4.3 Short and long planning

I am able to work independently or collaboratively to plan the practical activities for the day or for a longer training period
I am able to monitor the planning
I am able to adapt it if necessary

5. Life competences for a coach

5.1 Positive attitude at work

I am able to approach others with a positive, goal-oriented attitude and model such an attitude.
I am able to have a positive approach at work as a coach

5.2 Learning to learn

In my teaching, I am open to learning and applying modern professional methods
I am able to develop skills and strategies for learning
I am able to control my own learning
I am able on and evaluating own learning

5.3 Self-Motivational

I am able to take an initiative, act and move forward in my work area
I am able to starting tasks promptly and getting them done on time
I am able to take initiative on new projects/goals that can benefit the business
I am able to focus on work without getting distracted

6. Social skills

6.1 Adaptability

I am able to plan and carry out routine daily tasks showing flexibility
I am able to adapt the way of thinking to new conditions if necessary

6.2 Humor

I am able to incorporate humour in personal and real-life examples during training

6.3 Responsiveness

I am receptive to questions and I am able to show prompt attentiveness when your peers ask you for something, even if that response is temporary.
I am able to respond appropriately to questions and individual differences

6.4 Enthusiasm

I am energetic, optimistic, prepared, willing to commit time

6.5 Sincerity and honesty

I take every question seriously and I don’t pretend to know the answer if I don’t