Transfer Of Skills

Question 1

What is positive transfer? Give an example

Answer 1

When the learning of one skill aids the learning of another

E.g. = A tennis player using their knowledge of a serve to help them learn the overarm serve in volleyball

Question 2

What is negative transfer? Give an example

Answer 2

When the learning of one skill inhibits the learning of another skill

E.g. = A squash player who takes up tennis may find it difficult to learn to not use their wrist during shots

Question 3

What is proactive transfer? Give an example

Answer 3

When a previously learned skill influences a skill that is currently being learned

E.g. = A throwing action learned as a child will later transfer positively and proactively to an over arm bowl in cricket

Question 4

What is retroactive transfer? Give an example

Answer 4

When a newly learned skill influences a previously learned skill

E.g. = The acquisition of a successful tennis serve may influence the previously learned over arm throw used in cricket

Question 5

What is bilateral transfer? Give an example

Answer 5

The transfer of learning from one limb to the other

E.g. = A footballer learning to pass with their left foot when they have previously learned this skill with their right foot

Question 6

How can positive transfer be enhanced?

Answer 6

• Teach similar skills together
• Ensure previous skill overlearned
• And point out similarities
• Mastery model
• Positive reinforcement
• Ensure fundamentals taught first
• Progressive practices

Question 7

How can negative transfer be prevented?

Answer 7

• Draw attention to differences
• Thorough learning before progress
• Teach in clear steps
• Mastery model
• Not too much at once
• Avoid confusion
• Near transfer