2 - Transfer of Learning

Question 1

Define Transfer?

Answer 1

The effects of the learning and performance of one skill on the learning and performance of another.

Question 2

Define Positive Transfer?

Answer 2

When the learning one skill helps or aids the learning of another.

Question 3

Give an example of Positive Transfer?

Answer 3

Examples include; similar arm actions of the overarm serve in volleyball and the tennis serve. Also the similar action for a basketball pass and a netball pass.

Question 4

Define Negative Transfer?

Answer 4

This happens when the action of one skill hinders the learning of another.

Question 5

Give an example of Negative Transfer?

Answer 5

Learning the forehand drive in tennis hinders the forehand clear in badminton.

Another example would be the tennis serve is very different it the badminton serve (tennis serve uses the arm, badminton uses the wrist).

Question 6

Define Zero Transfer?

Answer 6

When the learning of one skill has no affect on another since the two skills in question have no similarities and no aspect of confusion.

Question 7

Give an example of Zero Transfer?

Answer 7

The swimming arm action and the foot placement in rock climbing having nothing in common and therefore there is no transfer affect between them.

Question 8

Define Bilateral Transfer?

Answer 8

Learning and performing a skill on one side of the body is then transferred to the opposite side.

Question 9

Give an example of Bilateral Transfer?

Answer 9

A right-footed footballer would be encouraged to use his left foot when required, so that the impact of the shot from the left foot becomes equal to the impact of the shot on the right foot.

Boxers right hook becomes as strong as his left.

Question 10

Name ways in which a coach could encourage positive transfer?

Answer 10

• Ensure the performer has over-learned the first skill before introducing the second / more advanced skill.
• Make the practice environment as close to game situation as possible, e.g for a football free-kick practice session use real defenders instead of free-kick mannequins.
• Give praise / positive reinforcement when positive transfer take place.
• Avoid teaching skills close together that might appear the same but have a distinct difference e.g tennis and badminton skills.