Processing of Information and Performance of Experts

Models of information processing were prevalent from the 1950’s ’s Represented a shift in focus from product to process. Subjects’ experience and activities engaged in became important components in the analysis of tasks. Cognitive models were used to explain motor behavior.

A serial model of information processing. Input PerceptionDecisionEffectorOutput Intrinsic Information Feedback Extrinsic Information Feedback STMLTM

info processing4 Perception Clarity and Intensity Detection Recognition Comparison Selective Attention Input PerceptionDecisionEffectorOutput Intrinsic Information Feedback Extrinsic Information Feedback STMLTM

info processing5 Short-term memory Utilization Organization Execution Evaluation Input PerceptionDecisionEffectorOutput Intrinsic Information Feedback Extrinsic Information Feedback STMLTM

What is working memory? Working memory is a way of describing short- term memory. The working memory perspective views the short-term memory like a workbench where input is received, past experiences are evaluated, and responses are shaped. Some patterns, ideas, and information are received from STM and stored in some form for long term use. Information is reshaped and transferred for performance.

Decision Simple, choice, and discrimination reactions Fractionated Reaction Time Premotor reaction time Motor reaction time Single channel processing Attention Selective attention Psychological refractoriness (the “fake”) Input PerceptionDecisionEffectorOutput Intrinsic Information Feedback Extrinsic Information Feedback STMLTM

Effector Open loop and closed loop models Input PerceptionDecisionEffectorOutput Intrinsic Information Feedback Extrinsic Information Feedback STMLTM

Output Biomechanical analysis of motor patterns provides information about the consistency and diversity of movement parameters. The movement process can be described through these analyses. Input PerceptionDecisionEffectorOutput Intrinsic Information Feedback Extrinsic Information Feedback STMLTM

Dynamic systems models the environment (environmental constraints) the physical properties (mechanical constraints) the morphology (anatomical constraints)

S-R tradition Hierarchical Models Dynamic Systems Models Development of Motor Behavior

Knowledge of Performance Feedback KP is feedback about the movement form. It is related to the process of movement, e.g., proprioception (kinesthesis) or verbal information from a coach, teacher, ergonomist, or trainer. KP can be provided from internal or external sources. Gentile (2000) and Allard and Burnett (1985) advocated for providing KP in closed skills without intertrial variability.

Knowledge of Results Feedback KR is feedback about the goal (result) of movement, e.g., seeing a ball go through the basket, hearing an administrator’s excitement at the completion of a task. KR can be provided through internal or external sources. Gentile (2000) and Allard and Burnett (1985) suggested KR is appropriate for open and closed skills that occur in variable environments.

Components of Expertise Performance characteristics Hardware and software Neurophysiological mechanisms Information processing Memory

Differences in Expert and Novice Information Processing Limitations space and time 7+2 items chunking of information organization repetition and development of central program generators

Differences in Expert and Novice Performance Characteristics Relationship between process/product Measures and analyses using biomechanics Degree of goal attainment Manipulation of objects Movement of the body

Knowledge Structures What is explicit knowledge? What is implicit knowledge?

Defining Expertise What is ability? What is expertise?

What is domain specific knowledge and expertise?

You are an expert! Select a skill at which you consider yourself an expert Attempt to uncover the components you bring to this skill that make you an expert Identify the components discussed by Ericsson and Ward that make you an expert