MOTOR LEARNING AND LAWN BOWLS

Types of practice have a powerful influence on learning (Amezdroz, 2010). To improve my skill, accuracy and consistency in lawn bowls it is suggested that I try different types of practice. There are six goals of practice and these are to develop highly persistent movement skills, develop highly adaptable skills, practise specificity, increase confidence, increase ability to perform under pressure and increase decision-making ability (Amezdroz, 2010). The key types of practice that would directly be recommended for my learning and progression standards are variable, massed and whole practice.

 

Varied practice refers to practising a class of skills using variations within one practice session (GCE, n.d). This type of practice allows learners to practise in situations more realistic to their sporting activity. For example, in a game of lawn bowls, the kitty has countless areas where it rests, the opponents bowls will be moving each game and the weather situations change, by practising in different game situations it is easier to progress skills and overcome obstacles.

Massed practice refers to practising a skill continuously and consistently. It is used to learn simple skills, when practice time is short and limited and when performers are experienced and highly motivated (GCE, n.d). For example, each week a 90 minute training session is offered to thee Year 12 Physical Education class, this is a limited amount of time and massed practice is ideal to perform and practice draw shots in game conditions to learn effectively. I am highly motivated to succeed and progress in lawn bowls, therefore massed practice is an effective method to learn new skills and techniques to develop as a player.

Whole practice is a type of practice routine that involves learning a skill in its entirety. The skill does not get broken down into sub-routines and is perfect for the athlete to know the ‘feel’ and timing of the movement (GCE, n.d). This method of learning was effective when I applied it to my practice sessions. I was able to focus on the pre-delivery phase, delivery phase and follow through all in one continuous movement.