5.1 Classification of skills

Question 1

Skill

Answer 1

A skill is a learned action / learned behaviour with the intention of bringing out pre-determined results, with maximum certainty and minimum outlay of time and energy.
An effectively mastered skill will consistently result in a successful outcome with minimal effort.

Question 2

Ability

Answer 2

Ability are inherited, stable traits that determine an individual’s potential to learn or acquire a skill.

Question 3

Basic / complex continua

Answer 3

• Basic skill (skill classification) - A skill which is quickly learned as there are very few decisions to be made when performing the skill.
• Complex skill (skill classification) - A skill which requires a lot of decision making, requiring a high level of coordination and thinking.

Question 4

Open / closed continua

Answer 4

• Open skill (skill classification) - A skill which is performed in a certain way to deal with a changing or unstable environment, e.g. to outwit an opponent.
• Closed skill (skill classification): A skill which is not affected by the environment or performers within it. The skill tends to be done the same way each time.

Question 5

Self paced / externally paced continua

Answer 5

• Self-paced skill (skill classification) - The skill is started when the performer decides to start it. The speed, rate or pace of the skill is controlled by the performer.
• Externally-paced skill (skill classification): The skill that is started because of an external factor. The speed, rate or pace of the skill is controlled by external factors, e.g. an opponent.

Question 6

Gross / fine continua

Answer 6

• Gross skill (skill classification): Using large muscle groups to perform big, strong powerful movements.
• Fine movement (skill classification): Small and precise movement, showing high levels of accuracy and coordination. It involves the use of a small group of muscles.

Question 7

Performance goal

Answer 7

A goal relating to individual performance without comparison to others.
A performance goal might involve:
Improving on a prior performance
Perfecting a particular technique

Question 8

Outcome goal

Answer 8

A goal relating to an end result that involves comparison with others.
An outcome goal might be concerned with:
Winning a match or tournament
Being selected for a team
Scoring a certain number of points

Question 9

SMART targets

Answer 9

Specific, Measurable, Accepted, Realistic, Time-bound