Stages of Learning

• The three stages of learning:

  • cognitive
  • associative
  • autonomous
• Cognitive characteristics:

  • novice/beginner
  • no motor programmes developed
  • develops understanding and sub-routines through trial and error
  • uncoordinated movement
• associative characteristics:

  • performance become smoother
  • motor programmes begin to form
  • longest stage
  • trial and error is still used to try and perfect technique
• autonomous characteristics:

  • performance is detailed and specific
  • motor programmes fully formed
  • automatic control
  • skills are fluent and efficient
• Cognitive characteristics:

  • lots of mistakes
  • extrinsic feedback, especially positive reinforcement
  • visual demonstrations to give learner a mental picture
  • limited attention capacity so instructions must be brief
  • manual guidance might be used
• Associative characteristics:

  • movement patterns are more fluent
  • learner begins to know the feel of the movement and can use kinaesthetic feedback
  • still need extrinsic feedback
  • has mental image of what is required but still makes mistakes
  • faults need to be corrected to stop learner developing habits
• Autonomous characteristics:

  • movement patterns are now well learned and are automatic
  • learner does not need to concentrate on performance
  • greater use of kinaesthetic