Observation interventions for motor skill learning and performance: an applied model for the use of observation

Abstract

Using the 5 Ws and 1 H journalistic approach of Beveridge Mackie (2011), we reviewed the observation intervention research that targeted sport skills or daily movement tasks. Through this review, it became apparent that while there is much research that examines observation of a live or video (what), skilled model (who) for enhanced skill learning (why) in laboratory settings (where), there is a need for not only a wider scope of research, but also a deeper one. Following the review of literature, an applied model for the use of observation is advanced. Through this applied model, we propose that practitioners should first assess the observer's characteristics and the task characteristics for which any observation intervention is being created. The practitioner should then gain an understanding of the context and the desired outcomes of the learner and use this advance information to vary the characteristics of: (1) who is observed; (2) what is observed and what instructional features will accompany the intervention; (3) when it is observed; and (4) how the observed information should be delivered. Future research directions are also forwarded with regard to identified gaps in the literature.

Keywords:

• observational learning
• skill acquisition
• performance enhancement
• review

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to recognize the contributions of Elizabeth Nolan, for assisting with database searches, and Kelly Vertes who was instrumental in assisting with the references, Figure 1, and the Appendix.

Notes

The Appendix is available as online supplementary data for this article, see http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/1750984X.2012.665076