Demonstrations and Verbal instructions (L12)

Question 1

what is observation learning?

Answer 1

Learning a skill by watching a person perform/demonstrate/model the skill

Question 2

What does the observer perceive from
demonstration? (2)

Answer 2

*Coordination/movement pattern
*Invariant features: relative information about the relationships between
components of movement

Question 3

what is Point-light display?

Answer 3

*We recognize movement
patterns without the
need to see the entire
body
*Use invariant time
relationship to
distinguish different
movement patterns

Question 4

Demonstration leads to better learning than other
instruction forms when the skill being learned requires
the acquisition of a ___________…and NOT a ……

Answer 4

new pattern of coordination (not
new parameter characteristics for well-learned patterns)

Question 5

how do Beginners also benefit from observing other beginners?

Answer 5

1. Observer can learn which unsuccessful strategies to avoid (learn from errors)
2. Encourages the observer to engage in more active problem solving

Question 6

Why does observation benefit learning? 2 reasons

Answer 6

1. Cognitive mediation theory: memory of demonstration (observed movement information) translated into a cognitive code
   *Guide for performing skill
   *Reference for error correction and detection
   *Attention, retention (rehearsal), behavioral
   reproduction, motivation
2. Dynamic view of modeling: visual system processes
   observed movement to constrain motor control system (i.e.
   what body and limbs move and how they coordinate)

Question 7

what is discovery learning

Answer 7

Focus instructions on goal of action i.e.
movement outcomes rather than movements
themselves (production

Question 8

what is internal vs external focus of attention?

which impairs performance

which leads to better skill performance

Answer 8

Internal
Focus attention on one’s own
movements
*“Put your hand on the bar”
*“Raise your shoulder and
straighten your elbow”
*“Focus on swing of your arms”

Internal focus of attention impairs performance
external focus leads to better skill performance

External
Focus attention on the effectsof
one’s own movements (goals)
*“Hold the tube”
*“Reach for the cup”
*”Focus on the swing of the
golf club”

Question 9

Why does external focus lead to better skill
performance?

Answer 9

Internal:
*Constrains/restricts the motor system as learner tries to consciously
control movements (Fitts’ and Posner’s Cognitive stage of learning)
*“choking under pressure”
External:
*Allows automatic control processes to regulate movement
(unconscious)
….caveat, may depend on skill level of learner