Theories of learning and stages

• Operant conditioning:

  • Individual is conditioned by stimuli which are connection or bonded to appropriate response
  • Using positive & negative reinforcement or punishment
  • Trial and error
• Thorndikes laws are:

  Law of excercise - Rehearsing or repeating actions strengthens S-R bond

  Law of effect - If followed by a satisfier the S-R bond is strengthened, if followed by an annoyer the S-R bond is weakened

  Law of readiness - The athlete nust be both mentally & physically ready to perform the skill
• Hulls drive theory is if the S-R bond is too strong the performer must be motivated. Too much repetition could lead to inhibition which would demotivate the performer & weaken S-R bond.
• Social learning that occurs thorough observing the behaviour of others.
• Banduras model:

  Attention - Performer need to watch a suitable demonstration by role model/significant other

  Retention - Create a mental picture of the skill so practice in mind so correct movements are performed

  Motor production - Physical movement to perform the skill,learners must have the ability

  Motivation - Learners need, want or desire to replicate the skilled action
• Cognitive learning theory is concerned with thinking & understanding rather than connecting certain stimuli to certain response.
• The cognitive stage of learning:

  • First stage, where performers understand what needs to be done
  • Trial and error
  • Demonstration & Cues
• The associative stage of learning:

  • Performer practices the correct movement
  • Mental image produced
  • Become more aware of complex cues
• The autonomous stage of learning:

  • Final stage of learning
  • Movement almost automatic
  • Little conscious thought
  • Distractions can be ignored