Skill Acquisition – Section B Guidance Skill Acquisition – Section B

Information given to a performer to help improve performance Form of guidance depends on: Situation (facilities, time) Nature of the skill/task/complexity Ability of the performer (stage of learning) Depends on level of danger Depends on motivation Depends on size of group;

What different methods can be used? What is it? Visual guidance What different methods can be used?

Create a mental picture Visual guidance Create a mental picture Observe: Demonstration Video Pictures slides Area can be modified by cones, markings on the floor, visual targets, hoops

Examples of Visual Guidance Live demonstration of coach/expert performance Video of own performance (watch in slow motion) Video of perfect model Photographs/diagrams/computer simulation

Optimising the use of visual guidance; Demonstrations must be accurate and clear Not too lengthy/ complex for a beginner Use a role model Repeat the demonstration Use slow motion where possible (videos) Use with verbal guidance to focus on key points

Advantages Disadvantages Good for beginners Provides a clear idea of the movement patter Specific cues can be highlighted Disadvantages Demotivation – cannot replicate Information overload (novice) Poor replication if the skill is inaccurate Static forms of guidance soon lose impact

Verbal Guidance

Verbal guidance Explaining the motor skills to be performed, or to provide feedback Can be general or specific Technique Strategies

Optimising the use of verbal guidance Information – clear and accurate Limit amount of information given Terminology relevant to the group Use with visual guidance Use immediately after performance

Advantages Disadvantages Good for all stages of learning (if combined) Useful for autonomous stage of learning Immediate feedback Focuses performer’s attention on specific cues Disadvantages Demotivation if they cannot perform the skill Information overload Hard for novice performers to understand Movement may be difficult to explain Difficult with large groups- boring Over-reliance on feedback during and after performance

Manual Guidance Manual: physical support by another person Example: holding a persons legs in a handstand Coach holding the batsman’s arm

Factors to consider: Avoid overuse – performer needs to develop their own kinaesthetic awareness Combine with verbal guidance to focus on key points Ensure movement patter is correct

Good for all stages of learning Reduces fear and build confidence Advantages: Good for all stages of learning Reduces fear and build confidence Helps reduce risk Develop correct kinaesthetic awareness of movement patter Disadvantages Performer can become over reliant Lack of intrinsic feedback may hinder the development of true awareness of the movement patter Performer does not learn from their own mistakes Difficult with large groups Limited use in complex movements

Mechanical Guidance Mechanical: physical support by equipment Examples: Arm bands, floats, stabilisers, trampoline harness