Week 6 (ML) - Key Instructional Principles of Skill Acquisition

Question 1

Constant vs Variable Practice

Answer 1

Constant Practice
- Scheduling one movement skill variation
- Practicsed repeatedley without changing constraints
- e.g. basketball shots from the same distance and court position

Variable Practice
- Scheduling multiple movement skill variations
- Practiced with changing constraints
- e.g. shooting basketballs of varying inflation levels from different distances with different defensive influences

Question 2

When should you incorporate constant practice?

Answer 2

During the initial stages of learning
- it facilitates the learners movement repertoire
- because they are trying to understand what is happening

Question 3

When should you incorporate Variable Practice?

Answer 3

Once the learner has acquired the basic movement pattern
- Enhances the adaptability of movement production
- Associative to autonomous stage

Question 4

What key variables should be included when structuring practice?

Answer 4

• The number of skills practised
• The order in which the skills are performed –> put the focus of the session at the start
• The number of trials
• The number of blocks
• Amount of rest

Question 5

Complete the saying:
“Long term learning is >………”

Answer 5

Short term performance

Performance is the temporary expression of a skill

Question 6

When to use distributed practice

Answer 6

• New and complex skills
• Whole movement practice

Consider individual characteristics
- High energy demands
- High risk

Question 7

When to use Massed Practice

Answer 7

• Basic skills have been acquired
• FItness levels are sufficient
• Motiviation levels are high
• Attentional focus is sufficient

more practice than rest results in higher cognitive demand

Question 8

When to Increase Practice Complexity

Answer 8

Improved Consistency: Learner performs with fewer errors and more consistency.
Reduced Cognitive Effort: Task becomes automatic and requires less conscious thought.
Automaticity: Skill feels fluid and effortless.
Task Familiarity: Repeated practice leads to boredom or decreased challenge.
Feedback: Learner reports the task feels easier or less challenging.
Task Mastery: High success rate with no meaningful challenge at current difficulty.
Increase complexity to maintain an optimal challenge and promote further learning.