Module Description
Skill acquisition is commonly described as the voluntary control over movements
in an attempt to solve motor skill problems and achieve a task goal. These may
vary from catching a ball or riding a bike, to slalom skiing or rhythmic
gymnastics. Regardless of the domain, the interaction between the practitioner
(e.g. coach or PE teacher) and athlete when learning these skills is absolutely
fundamental to successful performance. Specifically, how can the practitioner
create optimal practice conditions to facilitate skill acquisition? The module will firstly enhance your understanding of contemporary
theory and research in skill learning and motor expertise. From this, the
module takes on a more applied focus, where evidence-based approaches are
implemented to critically evaluate their effect on coaching practice.
Module Aims
This module will enhance your critical understanding of contemporary theory, research, and practice in skill learning and motor expertise in sport. The module will cover different evidence-based techniques to enable practitioners to apply this knowledge to facilitate skill acquisition in their athletes.
Learning Outcomes- Identify and explain theories relating to learning, motor control and expertise in sport
- Critically evaluate key concepts and research across the skill acquisition literature
- Design, develop and deliver coaching sessions in line with theoretical principles relating to the practice environment
- Analyse and critically reflect on own coaching practice
- Work effectively in group settings when developing and/or leading seminar and practical tasks
- Coherently present and disseminate work in both written and oral format
- Module Supervisor: Emily Cushion