1. The use of feedback in learning motor skills

2. FEEDBACK Can be given during the performance of a motor skill or after its completion Is most effective if given soon after while the performance is fresh in the participants mind motivatesChanges performance Reinforces learning The more precise the feedback, the more beneficial it is

3. Different forms of feedback Continuous – feedback during the performance (eg from coach, teacher, or from continuous ‘feel’ of the skill) Terminal – feedback after completion of skill Knowledge of results – terminal feedback about the end result Knowledge of performance – information about how well the skill is being executed

4. Internal/intrinsic – continuous feedback from proprioceptors Internal/intrinsic/augmented – from an external source eg sound or vision Positive – feedback on a successful outcome which reinforces skill learning Negative – feedback on an unsuccessful outcome (which can be used to build more successful strategies)

5. 2 types of feedback which are particularly important in sports performance Knowledge of results External feedback – either performer seeing the result or from another person, usually coach or teacher. Difficult for learning to take place (especially early on) without this type of feedback Knowledge of performance Feedback (normally external) about the pattern of movement which has or is taking place, but can also be gained through kinaesthetic awareness, especially if the performer is highly skilled and knows what a good performance feels like

6. Reinforcement is essential for effective skill learning, and feedback serves as a good reinforcer. If the movement and /or the result is good then the performer will be pleased. Knowing that the movement and results are good will help the performer to form a picture of what is correct and to associate future performance with that picture, image or model

7. External feedback, however, should be used with care because the performer may come to depend too heavily upon it and will not develop internal feedback Different performers respond differently to different types of feedback The type of feedback given will depend on the ability of the performer, the type of activity being undertaken and the personality of the performer

8. Appropriate feedback can certainly enhance motivation and improve performance Negative feedback can be used effectively at times as a motivational tool and to encourage self reflection Setting targets (or performance goals) can in themselves provide feedback on current performance (and inform future progressive targets)