Related Experiment Videos
In defence of discovery learning.
1Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, Department of Psychology, Free University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Canadian Journal of Sport Sciences = Journal Canadien Des Sciences Du Sport
|June 1, 1990
Summary
This study found that while various training methods impact motor skill acquisition, none surpassed discovery learning for slalom skiing on a simulator. Discovery learning encourages iterative exploration of system dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Motor Learning
- Sports Science
- Human Movement
Background:
- Acquiring complex motor skills like slalom skiing requires effective training strategies.
- Understanding how different instructional methods influence skill acquisition is crucial for optimizing learning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of knowledge of results, preferred frequency, and model availability on learning slalom ski movements.
- To compare the efficacy of these training methods against discovery learning.
Main Methods:
- Three experiments were conducted using a ski-simulator to assess motor skill learning.
- Learners were exposed to different training conditions: knowledge of results, preferred frequency, and model availability.
- Performance was evaluated to determine the influence of each training method on the learning curve.
Main Results:
- All tested training methods influenced the learning process of the complex motor skill.
- No specific training method (knowledge of results, preferred frequency, model availability) proved superior to discovery learning.
- Discovery learning appeared to facilitate a deeper exploration of the system's dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Discovery learning may be a highly effective method for acquiring complex motor skills due to its emphasis on iterative exploration.
- The findings suggest potential for integrating prescriptive and discovery learning approaches for enhanced outcomes.
- Further research could explore optimal combinations of training methods.