Guidance and Transfer of Learning
Guidance This is the method by which a teacher/coach transmits the information necessary to help a performer to develop a new skill.
Three Forms of Guidance Visual Verbal Manual/Mechanical
Visual The teacher provides a range of visual images- demonstrations, pictures and video to allow the performer to see what the skill looks like- this helps build a cognitive model of the skill. Often used with beginners. Can you think of two examples?
Verbal The teacher uses verbal descriptions, cue words or phrases to help the learner understand what is to be achieved. It is often used in conjunction with visual guidance and is better for more advanced learners. Can you think of two examples?
Manual/Mechanical The teacher physically moves the learner’s limbs through the movement to enable them to feel the correct action. The teacher may also help the learner produce the correct movement by physically restricting the movement. Can you think of two examples?
Transfer of Learning Positive Negative Zero Bilateral Proactive Retroactive
Positive Transfer This is where the effect of a previously learned or practiced skill has a beneficial effect upon another. For example, being able to throw over-arm may help when learning to tennis serve.
Negative Transfer This is where the effect of a previously learned or practised skill is damaging to the learning of a new skill. It is possible to have short term negative transfer, which is soon overcome. For example moving from outdoor cricket to indoor cricket.
Zero Transfer This is where the learning of one skill has no impact on the learning of another skill.
Bilateral Transfer This is where there is a transfer from one limb to another. Learning a skill from one foot to the other in football is an example.
Proactive Transfer This is where the learning of a skill will have an impact on a skill that is to be learnt in the future. Coaches must consider proactive transfer when setting up practice drills.
Retroactive Transfer This is the opposite or proactive and is when a skill being learnt has an impact on previously learnt tasks.