[dockd]

The thing I don't get about regression-to-the-mean is whether there is an implication that your baseline is fixed.

That is, can a fighter pilot move up from being a level 4 in a dogfight to a level 7 with training, or will they forever be a level 4 because it's their baseline? Did Michael Jordan have the same ability as a basketball player after 2 seasons as he did after 8?

[schneems]

Saying “great job” after MJ sinks a shot won’t make him awful and saying “try harder” after he misses won’t make him amazing.

Baseline moves with sustained practice and accurate, actionable feedback.

The comment is speaking. To the feedback of the instructor. If an instructor is shortsighted and only looks at the immediate next effect it will always (incorrectly) seem that criticism produces better results. If an instructor has a longer lens, they will use the best combination to quite the individual’s learning style. They should focus on setting and aligning on goals and making accurate assessments and not worrying about whether they should be more or shouty.