Transfer of Skills

• Positive tranfer is when the learning or performance of one skill helps the learning or performance of another skill. It transfers the S-R bonds of one skill to another and helps to develop the correct motor programme.
• Positiver transfer is caused when skills have similar movement patterns, similar information processing and perceptual requirements and similar tactical elements.
• To maximise the effects of positive transfer the previous skill should be well learned and grooved.
• To maximised the effects of positive transfer the coach should point out similar elements of skills.
• To maximised the effects of positive transfer the coach can use positive reinforcement when positive transfers occurs.
• To maximised the effects of positive transfer the performer can try to make information processing and tactics similar.
• To maximised the effects of positive transfer the performer can use varied practice and practice that replicates match situation so the performer builds schemas and learns how to transfer skills.
• If bi-lateral transfer is required, make sure that the skill is developed to a good standard on the dominant side first.
• Negative transfer is when the learning or performance of one skill hinders the learning or performance of another skill.
• Negative transfer can cause a performer to respond incorrectly to similar stimuli and can cause confusion.
• Negative transfer is caused when skills appear to be similar but are in fact different.
• Fortunately, negative transfer is usually temporary.
• The coach can minimise negative transfer by making sure the first skill is well learned before introducing the second.
• The coach can minimise negative transfer by drawing the performers attention to elements that might negatively transfer.
• The coach can minimise negative transfer by drawing the performer's attention to any negative transfer that has occured.
• The coach can minimise negative transfer by avoiding teaching conflicting skills close together.
• The coach can minimise negative transfer by making sure that the performer understands the different movements required.
• Proactive transfer is when the learning of an old skill influences the learning of a new skill. It can be positive or negative.
• Retroactive transfer is when the learning of a new skill influences the learning of a previously learned skill. It can be positive or negative, Negative retroactive transfer is less likely in highly skilled performers.
• Bilateral transfer is when skills are transferred from one side of the body to the other side.