Effects of strategy use on acquisition of a motor task during various stages of learning

To specify the optimal point for introducing a learning strategy, 50 participants were randomly assigned into five groups based on the timing of strategy introduction while learning a badminton serve. Groups were instructed in the use of Singer's Five-step Strategy either prior to starting their acquisition trials (100% group) or following acquisition Trial Blocks 1 (83% group), 3 (50% group), 5 (17% group) or were assigned to a control (0% group) group). Participants were asked to complete six acquisition trial blocks of 10 serves each, followed by a break and then two retention trial blocks. Scores were obtained by hitting shuttles into a scoring grid, which served as the dependent measure. Data were analyzed using a mixed-model analysis of variance with a group x trial blocks design, which yielded significant main effects for both factors during acquisition. Introduction of a learning strategy may be more efficient once participants have become familiar with the task. No significant differences were observed between groups who received the strategy early and the control group. Thus, it appears that learning strategies should be introduced later in the learning process and may distract if provided too early.