AS PE PHED 1 Skill Acquisition Learning Curves

AS PE PHED 1 Skill Acquisition Learning Curves

Learning curves and plateaus What is a Learning Curve? What is a Learning Plateau? how can it be overcome?

p 115 Use the text book to make notes and draw the 4 types of learning curve.

Learning Curve Stage 1 - Performer is at cognitive phase trying to develop subroutines, attempts will seem uncoordinated with little success Stage 2 - Rapid increase in performance as learner begins to master the task. Performance is more fluid and executed with enthusiasm Stage 3 - Performer hits a plateau with little or no improvement. May have reached limit of ability or become bored with task Stage 4 - Reduction in level of performance, possibly due to fatigue/injury or a loss of motivation (Drive reduction) 3 Success 1 2 Time 4

Why do Learning Plateaus occur? Not physically ready to improve Lacks ability to develop current skills Earlier incorrect learning Fatigue Moving from a simple skill to a complex skill Boredom Lack of motivation to improve Goals set too high Poor coaching/teaching

How do you overcome a learning Plateau? • Ensure the performer is physically ready • Reset the goal to ensure it is achievable • Shorter practice/ Distributed practice avoiding boredom • Break down skill into component parts if possible • Allow time for mental rehearsal • Generate motivation using external rewards • Ensure accurate feedback is being regularly received • Make practice enjoyable