Motor Development notes
Overview of Class Activities
Emphasis on understanding movement and locomotion.
Warm-up activities leading to the main assignment.
For the current assignment, a full week is allowed to complete it.
Includes watching about 10 short videos (8-10 seconds each).
Assignment Details
Timeframe: One week to complete the assignment.
Format: Two Word documents — an observation table and questions based on the observations.
Assignment released on Black Vaud, anticipated by 02:30 today.
Focus on human locomotion and basic forms of movement such as walking.
Class Commitment
Importance of consistent participation and completing assignments for success in the course (90-95% effort needed).
Encouragement to take time with the assignment for thorough understanding.
Introduction to Human Locomotion
Definition: Locomotion refers to the act of moving from place to place.
Connection made to everyday human activities, primarily walking.
Different stages of movement: crawling, creeping, walking, running, and jumping.
Key Phases of Movement Development
Crawling : Initial phase where infants move on their stomachs using arms.
Milestones include lifting the head and supporting weight with limbs.
Progresses from commando crawling to creeping (moving on hands and knees).
Walking : Questions the transition from crawling to walking.
Walking is defined as 50% phasing between legs (Clark et al., 1988).
Structure of walking includes double support and single support phases, as well as gait analysis for diagnosing issues.
Factors affecting walking include structural constraints (height, weight) and environmental factors (terrain).
Rate controllers for walking include strength (trunk muscles) and balance.
Running : Transition occurs typically 6 to 7 months post walking.
Defined by a flight phase with no double support time.
Focus on balance and coordination as skills develop.
Stages of Crawling and Creeping
Distinction between crawling (stomach on the floor) and creeping (moving on all fours).
Progression of crawling to creeping:
Phase 1: Crawling with stomach on floor.
Phase 2: Low creeping, stomach off the ground.
Phase 3: High creeping with rocking motion.
Phase 4: Full creeping with independent limb movement.
Importance of environmental factors for successful crawling (e.g., surface type affects traction).
Developmental Changes in Walking
New walkers prioritize stability over mobility (wide stance, high guard arm position).
Gradual improvement results in greater mobility, shorter strides, and lower guard arm position.
Changes in walking patterns are affected by individual differences (age, strength, health).
Older adults exhibit similar challenges as early walkers, focusing on stability and using aids (canes, walkers).
Influential Factors in Locomotion Development
Rate Limiters: Strength and balance are key determinants for the development of movement skills.
Environmental and Task Constraints: Impact movements and adaptability based on situations (e.g., icy surfaces).
Cultural and Gender Influences: Stereotypes may affect individual movement practices (e.g., gendered movement behaviors).
Proficiency in Walking and Running
Proficient walking involves biomechanical efficiency such as:
Double knee lock pattern.
Reduced toeing out and lengthened stride.
Implementation of arm opposition.
Developmental changes from childhood to adolescence enhance running efficiency.
Improvements and challenges persist into adulthood, influenced by individual physical constraints and experiences.
Conclusion and Future Learning
Students will engage in labs to observe and analyze movement skills (first lab focused on walking).
Developing observation skills based on analysis, planning, and positioning to enhance understanding.
Movement throughout the lifespan will serve as a continuous learning focus.