Factors in Learning Skilled Behaviors; Abernethy, B; http://coachsci.sdsu.edu/csa/vol31/aberneth.htm
The research of the author is based on different sports. Various sport disciplines are rather distinct from one another and for that reason often require a specific approach. However, the points given by the authors are meant to be appropriate for all of the sports. General suggestions are given and they can be applied to different sports with some alteration. The author hypothesizes on the factors in learning behaviors.
The design of the study is based on hypothesis given by the authors. Further on, these hypotheses are proven as correct and correlated to different sports. In some cases, as in the case for learning skills in parts, the example of gymnastics was given as to show best the problem at hand. In other case, sports which do not qualify under a particular category are mentioned. For example, such sports as swimming and running are not very appropriate for the learning of skills by parts.
1. The number of practices with feedback should be increased
2. Practices should be scheduled in such an order as to not exhaust the athlete to avoid overloading
3. A variety of practices should be implemented for a better adaptation to different situations
4. The more specific the practice, the better
5. Skills are better built up is split into different parts
6. Mental practice is important in order to prepare athletes for competitions
The points given by the authors are well grounded and interesting. However, this study could be continued further by examining specific learning skills for each sport. This way, the advice would be more specific to the needed discipline.
Early Learning/Training is not Necessarily the Best; Scott, J.P.; http://coachsci.sdsu.edu/csa/vol31/scott.htm
The research is carried out on the basis of certain sources, including McGraw, M. B. (1935). Growth: A study of Johnny and Jimmy. This makes a good basis for a hypothesis. The problem addressed in this article is the need to push kids to sports in the early age. The author believes that this is incorrect and supports his hypothesis with certain factors and examples.
The methodology of this paper is mostly based on other sources. The writer defends his hypothesis by explaining the possible negative effect of early involvement in sport. Many examples are given to support his claim.
The article indicates that walking cannot develop faster than is natural for it. For this reason, children should not be pushed, as it may result in some negative effects. The same is true for rolascaring as an activity, which is also supposed to develop along the lines of walking. The hypothesis of the article is that early age sport is not completely necessary. However, if a development in sport is to take place, it should have the following features:
1. There needs to be a variety of activities to develop children fully
2. Much attention should not be paid to individual skill development
3. A successful outcome is not an individual activity but a wide range of activities
4. Adult rules should also be avoided for children.
The results of the article completely support the hypotheses statement. For future research perhaps more attention should be paid to exactly which activities would match the features presented by the writer. That way a more clear idea of possibilities would be formed.
