Understanding development and learning of motor coordination in sport: The contribution of dynamic systems theory

Author(s): Vereijken, B.

Journal/Book: Int J Sport Psychol. 1999; 30: Via Panama 68, 00198 Rome, Italy. Edizioni Luigi Pozzi. 507-530.

Abstract: To date our understanding of learning and development of fundamental motor skills in sport still relies heavily on stage-like approaches. The aim of this article is to show how dynamic systems theory can provide compelling concepts and methods to go beyond stage approaches and study the transitions from one stage to another. We begin by introducing the major dynamic systems concepts and methods that we deem essential to the study of motor learning and development. Then we illustrate through two exemplar studies how the application of these concepts and methods have shed new light on old developmental questions and the learning of complex coordination. Finally, we discuss how dynamic systems theory can be used to study and teach fundamental motor skills in children. In the conclusion, we invite practitioners and scientists to empirically test and verify our claims.

Note: Article Corbetta D, Purdue Univ, Dept HKLS, 1362 Lambert, W Lafayette,IN 47907 USA

Keyword(s): development; dynamic systems theory; learning; motor skills; HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCE; RHYTHMIC MOVEMENTS; PHASE-TRANSITIONS; CONCEPTUAL IMPLICATIONS; INFANTS; TREADMILL; PATTERNS; SYMMETRY; FLUCTUATIONS; ACQUISITION

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