Speed and accuracy in the learning of a complex motor skill.
The effect of emphasizing speed or accuracy on the learning of a high speed-high accuracy skill, the fastpitch softball pitch was investigated. 26 10- and 11-yr.-old girls were randomly assigned to two groups receiving feedback on speed of throwing or accuracy of throwing during a 6-wk. training. Measurements of speed and accuracy were made and recorded on all participants at each practice session and a videotape of their pitching technique was also made at each session. Data were subjected to 2 x 3 (2 groups by 3 testing times) repeated-measures analyses of variance. The speed group threw faster and with better technique during the study and was able to maintain speed and accuracy in the reversed test condition.
Engelhorn
R
R
Iowa State University, Ames 50011, USA.
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001484:Baseball / Q000193:education*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002648:Child; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D009048:Motor Skills; D011214:Practice, Psychological; D011897:Random Allocation