PE - Schema Theory

What is schema theory?

Individuals do not have enough memory capacity to store a separate motor programme for each movement.

Motor programme theory did not explain how individuals could execute new actions without having previously developed a motor programme

What did Schmit find out when researching schema theory?

Instead of specific ;muscular commands for each movement, there were generalised ones

→ series of generalised movement patterns which can be adapted or refined to suit a range of different movement patterns

What are the 2 parts of schema theory?

• Recall schema

• Recognition schema

What is recall schema?

Takes place prior to the start of the movement needed to complete the skill

What is the 2 parts recall schema is split into?

• Initial conditions

• Response specifications

What are the initial conditions in recall schema?

The information regarding the immediate situation that the performer is in

What is the response specifications in recall schema?

Desired response

What happens during recall schema?

Parameters for GMP are produced, providing information regarding the amount of speed, direction etc. needed to complete the GMP and therefore the skill

What is recognition shema?

Takes place either during or following the movement needed to complete a skill

What 2 parts is recognition schema broken down into?

• Sensory consequences

• Response outcomes

What are the sensory consequences in recognition schema?

How the movement felt when it was being completed or after it was completed, via information from the sensory system

What are the response outcomes in recognition schema?

How successful the movement was - information referred to memory store to allow comparison with any comparable skill that takes place in the future

What can a coach do to improve performance by using schema theory?

• Use schema to help transfer and adapt to different situations by expanding experience through variety of practices

• Apply lots of feedback and encouragement when they are successful and offer feedback when they are unsuccessful

• Practice sessions should be realistic and progressively challenging

• Sessions should include transferable elements which players are made aware of whenever possible