About the author and the work
Practical guidance for people who support better teaching.
Dr. Matt Rhoads connects cognitive science, instructional coaching, and purposeful technology use so educators can act on evidence without losing sight of the people doing the work.
Dr. Matt Rhoads
Research translated into usable coaching moves.
Dr. Matt Rhoads works at the intersection of cognitive science, instructional leadership, and AI and EdTech. Across more than twelve years in K–12, adult education, and higher education, he has helped educators connect how people learn with the systems, tools, and professional learning that support classroom practice.
He is a Solution Tree consultant and author, a university lecturer, an instructional and technology leader, and an active accreditation chair. His work is grounded in a simple standard: strategies should be practical, evidence-aware, and usable in the settings educators actually face.
The book framework
Five conditions that shape effective coaching.
Building Relationships
Build the trust and clarity that make honest coaching possible.
Cognitive Science
Use what we know about attention, memory, practice, and feedback.
EdTech and AI
Choose technology for instructional value rather than novelty.
How Coaching Happens
Move from observation and dialogue to rehearsal and action.
Systems Thinking
Create the roles, routines, and conditions that help coaching last.
Two ways to begin
Use the resources
Start with the free tools and pillar previews built from the book.
Support a coaching program
Bring the framework into a workshop, book study, program launch, or improvement cycle.
25 Tips for Instructional Coaches and Leaders 