Stages of learning

What is the definition of performance?

A temporary measurement which can alter from time to time. It differs from the term learning in that learning is relatively more permanent.

What is internal/intrinsic feedback?

A type of continuous feedback that comes from the proprioceptors - nerve receptors found in muscles, ligaments and joints that pick up movement information.

What is external/extrinsic/augmented feedback?

Feedback that comes from external sources - e.g. from a teacher 

What is positive feedback?

Reinforces skill learning and gives information about a successful. 

What is negative feedback?

Information about an unsuccessful outcome which can be used to build more successful strategies. 

What is knowledge of results?

A type of terminal feedback that gives the performer information about the end result of the response. 

What is knowledge of performance?

Information about how ell the movement is being executed, rather than the end result.

What is the definition of grooved?

Skill that is overlearned 

What are the three stages of leaning?

1. Cognitive

2. Associative

3. Autonomous

What is the cognitive stage?

First stage

• Lots of trial and error which means lots of mistakes 

• Movement is jerky, uncoordinated and inconsistent  

• Lack of fluency  

• Need extrinsic input due to lack of kinesthesis  

What is the associative stage?

Second stage

• Reduction in mistakes and trial and error  

• Movement is becoming more fluent and consistent  

• Performer is developing kinesthesis  

• Tends to be the longest phase of learning and some will never leave it  

What is the autonomous stage?

Third / final stage

• Movement is fluent, accurate and habitual (can be performed in a range of environments) 

• Little to no conscious thought about the movement  

• Attention can be given to tactics and adaptations 

Cognitive stage practical example

A novice learning to dribble in basketball. They tend to remain stationary and focus their vision on the ball. Attention to the point of contact and position of feet is necessary at this stage. 

Associative stage practical example

Novice will begin to dribble and control the ball whilst on the move and engaging practices incorporating stationary objects and active opposition. Attention can be partially focused on the environment as well as motion of the ball. 

Autonomous stage practical example

The dribble in basketball may eventually become a subroutine in a more complex skill like lay-up shooting. The player's focus will no longer be on the ball as it was during novice participation, but on environmental factors such as the opposition.  

How can coaches help performers move through the stages?

• Positive feedback 

• Allowing lots of time to practice  

• Help performers to understand what went wrong by identifying aspects of the performance that they need to improve and helping them to be able to feel this themselves  

• Giving lots of verbal guidance to highlight key parts of the skill 

• Physically supporting them through the skill to reduce the aspect of fear