03/06/2026
Many PDIs are encouraged to get their learners reflecting on lessons, yet very few spend time reflecting on their own performance.
It's easy to finish a lesson, think about what the learner did well, what they struggled with and what needs to be covered next time. The learner naturally becomes the focus of our attention. However, if we want to develop as instructors, we also need to take a critical look at ourselves.
Did I spot the learning opportunity when it appeared? Was my timing right? Did I ask questions that encouraged thinking, or did I jump in with the answer? Did I help the learner develop understanding, or simply tell them what to do?
The instructors who continue to improve year after year are often those who make time to analyse their own performance. They don't wait until a training session or Standards Check to think about their teaching. They do it after ordinary lessons, week after week, refining small details that gradually make a big difference.
Reflection doesn't need to be complicated. It doesn't require pages of notes. Sometimes identifying just one thing you could improve next time is enough.
When was the last time you reflected on your teaching rather than your learner's driving?
