Muska Mosston introduced the Spectrum of Teaching Styles to the field of physical education in 1966. This was long before these teaching styles were even understood in the area of general education. He was WAY before his time, but educators paid little to no attention to him because he was talking about Physical Education.
He suggested that there was a spectrum of teaching styles that ranged from teacher-driven to learner-driven. That is to say that on the far left of our graph (above), is a command-style of teaching where the teacher makes all of the decisions for the pupil. Somewhere in the middle, where some decisions are shared by the teacher and the pupil, is the style we would call Guided Discovery. And at the far right would be the style where the learner is making all of the decisions (called Learner-initiated).
So which is the best?!
Many would argue that the best place to reside somewhere from to the middle (guided discovery) to the far right, where the learner is making the decisions. These are the coaches that advocate for lots of free play, allow players to design their own practices, etc…
However, it is important to note that while Mosston originally advocated for a more learner driven model, he later in his career acknowledged that there are many variables that affect which style is the best at a given moment. Each style has strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately each one serves a purpose. Any style used at the wrong time could negatively impact learner development and acquisition of content.
THE TRUTH
Each style is a tool in your tool box. Experience and expertise helps you decide which style to use. at which time, and why. This is the art of coaching and teaching.
We need to stop thinking the hammer is the best tool, and begin to understand how to use every tool in the tool box.
Christopher Cramer 