SELF-CONTROLLED PRACTICE
Giving the learner some control over the practice conditions has been shown to be quite effective. We have found benefits of self-control for feedback, observational practice, and physical assistance devices. Also, in various studies we have examined possible reasons for the learning advantages of self-controlled practice. Giving learners the opportunity to control some of the practice conditions appears to encourage them to explore different movement strategies, and to tailor the practice conditions (e.g., feedback, presentation of visual models) according to their needs. Self-control also seems to have motivational effects that enhance learning.
Related publications:
Wulf, G., & Shea, C.H. (in press). Motor skill learning and performance: A review of influential factors. Medical Education.
Chiviacowsky, S., Wulf, G., Laroque de Medeiros, F., & Kaefer, A. (2008). Learning benefits of self-controlled knowledge of results in 10-year old children. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 79, 405-410.
Chiviacowsky, S., Wulf, G., Laroque de Medeiros, F., Kaefer, A., & Wally, R. (2008). Self-controlled feedback in children: Higher feedback frequencies enhance learning. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport79, 122-127.
Wulf, G., & Mornell, A. (2008) Insights about practice from the perspective of motor learning: A review. Music Performance Research, 2, 1-25.
Wulf, G. (2007). Self-controlled practice enhances motor learning: Implications for physiotherapy. Physiotherapy, 93, 96-101.
Chiviacowsky, S., & Wulf, G. (2005). Self-controlled feedback is effective if it is based on the learner’s performance. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 76, 42-48.
Wulf, G., Raupach, M., & Pfeiffer, F. (2005). Self-controlled observational practice enhances learning. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 76, 107-111.
Chiviacowsky, S., & Wulf, G. (2002). Self-controlled feedback: Does it enhance learning because performers get feedback when they need it? Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 73, 408-415.
Wulf, G., Clauss, A., Shea, C.H., & Whitacre, C. (2001). Benefits of self-control in dyad practice. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 72, 299-303.
Wulf, G., & Toole, T. (1999). Physical assistance devices in complex motor skill learning: Benefits of a self-controlled practice schedule. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 70, 265-272.
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