What is the recommended practice regarding lesson planning before starting golf instruction?

The recommended practice of making a mental map of the instructional journey with the student highlights the importance of having a clear, flexible, and student-centered approach to lesson planning. This method encourages the instructor to consider the individual needs and goals of the student while also structuring the progression of lessons in a logical sequence.

Creating a mental map allows the instructor to visualize the student's current skill level, identify the areas of focus, and plan the most effective strategies to achieve the desired outcomes. This approach fosters adaptability, enabling the instructor to adjust the lesson based on the student's immediate responses and progress, which is crucial for effective learning.

In contrast, focusing solely on problems from the last lesson can limit the scope of instruction and may not address all aspects of the student's development. Rigidly scripting lessons can lead to a lack of responsiveness to the student's needs, while writing down each student's shortcomings can be demotivating and does not contribute positively to a supportive learning environment. By creating a mental map, instructors can better facilitate growth and engagement, leading to a more successful teaching and learning experience.