Schema Theory

Question 1

Can you define schema theory in one sentence?

Answer 1

Schema are generalised motor programmes that we adapt and refine based on information sources/parameters

Question 2

What are the four parameters?

Answer 2

Recall Schema

1. Knowledge of Initial Conditions
2. Response Specifications

————skill attempt————

Recognition Schema

3. Sensory consequences
4. Response Outcomes

Question 3

1. Knowledge of Initial Conditions

Answer 3

The performer evaluates the conditions that might affect the skill performance.

eg. when throwing a ball - how heavy, how far, wind conditions, time available

Question 4

2. Response Specifications

Answer 4

The performer makes a plan

eg. when throwing a ball - how much force, body position, angle of throw, speed of movement

Question 5

3. Sensory consequences

Answer 5

Evaluate the senses

eg. how did it feel? Are there initial sight and sounds that might inform me about what happened

Question 6

4. Response Outcomes

Answer 6

What happened? Success? Failure?

eg. Did the ball go where I wanted? Did it get there quickly enough?

Question 7

Why schema and not individual motor programmes?

Answer 7

Schema helps reduce storage needed in long term memory. We could have a throwing schema and just adapt it based on what we are throwing (football, cricket ball, javelin).

It allows us to attempt brand new skills based on an exisiting schema - we just evaluate the intial conditions and compare it with what we have thrown before as we make the plan.