Learn: Stages of Learning and Feedback Types

Welcome!Today we'll explore the stages of learning and the types of feedback used in skill acquisition. These concepts are essential for understanding how athletes develop their skills over time and improve performance.

What are the Stages of Learning?The stages of learning describe how a person progresses from being a beginner to becoming an expert at a skill. There are three stages: cognitive, associative, and autonomous.

The Cognitive StageThis is the first stage of learning. The learner is trying to understand what the skill involves and how to perform it. Mistakes are common, and the learner relies heavily on feedback and guidance. Visual demonstrations are particularly helpful at this stage.

The Associative StageIn this stage, the learner starts to refine their movements and reduce errors. They can perform the skill more consistently but still need feedback to improve further. Practice is crucial in this stage.

The Autonomous StageThis is the final stage of learning. The skill is performed automatically, with little conscious thought. Movements are efficient, and the learner can focus on external factors like tactics or the environment. Feedback is still useful but less frequent.

Types of FeedbackFeedback is information provided to the learner about their performance. It helps improve skills and correct errors. There are two main types: intrinsic (from within, like feeling the movement) and extrinsic (from an external source like a coach).

Knowledge of Results vs Knowledge of PerformanceKnowledge of results focuses on the outcome (e.g., 'You scored the goal'). Knowledge of performance focuses on the quality of the movement (e.g., 'Your arm was positioned correctly'). Both are types of extrinsic feedback.

Review Time!Great work! You've explored the stages of learning and types of feedback. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.