DTMOPP Purse Mastery With Our Super Learning Method
The WAY you learn is just as important as WHAT you learn

Coaching is a craft. And there is a definite method for learning a craft. We did not invent the method, it has been around for as long as one person has had the desire to teach another person how to do something - a very long time. We did, however - with the help of Marshall Thurber (see acknowledgments at the bottom) - apply it to the craft of coaching. 

Introducing the DTMOPP Learning Method
We describe the method using the acronym DTMOPP. Which stands for Desire, Theory, Method, Observe, Practice and Perform. Using this method you can become effective in a craft VERY quickly.

The elements of DTMOPP

Desire
Why do you want to learn and master this subject?  How will it serve you and your life?  There must be some stirring inside you€ that will fuel your efforts and willingness to do what it will take to master the craft.

Theory
The thinking behind the practice of the craft.  This part of the process includes gathering information and studying the thoughts of teachers and practitioners of the craft.

Method
A method is a way to produce a consistent result through a sequence of actions.  It is the way something is done; the thoughts, actions, tools, models and practices of the craft. 

Observe
Observe others practicing the craft.  Learn from what they do and do not do.  Observe experienced practitioners AND novices.  Notice the difference in the results that are created.  As you observe you will learn and integrate the steps of the practice.

Practice
Repetition of the activities and techniques of the craft.  Observe the results of your efforts.  How do they compare with what you have observed?  The key is to practice the right things!  Practicing a method that does not produce the desired results does not lead to mastery.

Perform
A performance is your opportunity to display your current level of proficiency.  YES! The more you perform, receive feedback and adjust what you are doing, the faster you improve your skill.We encourage our students to use what they are learning with clients and colleagues outside of class and ask for feedback. 

A typical DTMOPP-based class:

Before the course you will receive preliminary course work to read and listen to which will help you prepare for the course. This will spark your desire for the program AND allow us to get right to work when we are together in class.

Then in the course we will engage in a lively dialogue about the method being taught and the theory behind that method.

Next the course leader will conduct a coaching session for you to observe. Following the session we will debrief what happened and generate insight and learning.

Then we will break out into groups of two (tele-dyad) so that you can practice what you have learned in a safe environment with a colleague. Again the way you practice models the way you will deliver the service. You will work with the same partner for each session of a four or six week class – which simulates working with a client over a period of time.

Finally, as a field work assignment, you will perform the method with at least 5 friends, colleagues or clients in the time between sessions. This assignment will get you into action quickly and spark your desire for the next portion of the program!

An additional level of performance occurs when you participate in the Coaching Practicum programs. Here you have the opportunity to coach a colleague while being critiqued by a certified coach.

Acknowledgement

Marshall Thurber
The year I spent mentoring with Marshall was the catalyst for the Coach-Two-Win method and the DTMOPP learning method.  Marshall described and used his version (called DTMIPPS) as a part of the Positive Deviant Network. Marshall is the genius behind some of the worlds most prolific personal growth gurus. Marshall kept asking me: “What is your method?”  Finally, I got it. Here it is.