Back to Front Coach Learning - Reflections on the final study:Epistemological Chaining across the Talent Pathway

Abstract

This study explored the existence, application, and coherence of the epistemological chain (EC) construct across a British sport’s talent pathway. The high performance director, six National coaches, and 12 players from the pathway were recruited. We employed qualitative methodology to gain understanding of participants’ perceptions and application of the pathway elements. We analysed behavioural differences between coaching levels with reference to an inter coach EC of decision making. Results suggest an inter coach EC present within the talent pathway. Interesting issues arise regarding the ‘3 C’s’ of consistency, clarity, and coherence which appear to be related to the efficacy of the pathway.