Motor Learning

Question 1

Fitts and Posner’s Stages of Learning

Answer 1

a. Cognitive Stage: basic understanding of ask with large errors → specific instruction may be needed in order to improve
b. Associative Stage: learner refines skill and awareness of mistakes, more consistent effort
c. Autonomous Stage: skill becomes automatic and learner is aware of mistakes and knows how to correct them

Question 2

Pre-Observation Stage

Answer 2

a. Identify the purpose of the skill
b. Break the skill into five phases
c. Identify key elements of each phase
d. Develop an observation plan

Question 3

Five Phases of a Skill

Answer 3

a. Preliminary movements: movements to get ready for a skill
b. Back Swing: movements that occur before force producing movements
c. Force Producing Movements: movements executed to produce force for impact or propulsion
d. Critical Instant: point that determines how effective a skill will be
e. Follow Through: movements that take place after the critical instant