SKILL ACQUISITION 5 –FACTORS AFFECTING LEARNING2.2 A Ball of a Time!

AROUSAL CONTROL• Arousal (or activation) is the ‘degree of

preparedness, alertness and excitement present in a performer. To achieve at your best you need to be at the ‘optimal arousal’ state, ready to participate, not under- or over-aroused.

• Under arousal often shows up as over-relaxation or lack of interest.

• Over arousal can be seen as excessive tension and nervousness

• The optimum arousal level varies from person to person, and for the same person, from task to task.

AROUSAL CONTROL• To maximise performance you need to be in optimal state of

arousal

Arousal

Performance

SPEED V ACCURACY

• If you concentrate on accuracy, speed will suffer.• If you concentrate on speed, accuracy can suffer.

VARIABILITY OF PRACTICE

• Different types of skills require different environments in which they can be learned.

• This is also dependent of the stage of learning that a performer is in.

• Low variables/novice• High variable/experienced

OTHER FACTORS AFFECTING LEARNING

Age

Motor performance tends to deteriorate after the age of 30. Some activities also suit people of a certain age. Eg. Swimmers tend to prosper at a younger age than some other sports.

Sex

Some activities suit males, while others are easier for females to learn. The difference in muscle, body shape, flexibility etc cause the difference

Inherited characteristics ie. Genetics

Some activities suit certain body types. There are plenty of differences in height, weight, strength, flexibility, vision, endurance, hearing.

• Level of ability

Some performers have experienced a wider range of experiences and are better suited to learning a new skill. This may include things such as balance, co-ordination

• Intelligence / Mental ability

Some performers have an advantage because they are better at concentrating, have better memories or have a better tactical appreciation

• Previous experience

Learning is easier if the performer has had previous experience with a skill that is related to the new skill being learned. Eg. Squash player learning badminton.

• Motivation

Learning is quicker if the performer is motivated

 • Environmental conditions

These can include things like distractions or equipment as well as the obvious such as weather conditions, temperature

• Sociocultural influences

Individuals are affected by their social conditions such as those involving competition, co-operation or performing in front of an audience. Cultural influences such as tradition, family background, friends and economic status.

London 2012