Skill continuums
The use of continuum's was devised to allow skills to be analysed and placed between two extremities, according to how they match the analysis criteria being applied.
Sporting skills can be classified on 6 different continuum's.
Sporting skills can be classified on 6 different continuum's.
- The muscular involvement (gross / fine) classification.
- The environmental influence (open / closed) classification.
- The continuity (discrete / serial / continuous) classification.
- The pacing (self paced / externally paced) classification.
- The difficulty (simple / complex) classification.
- The organisation (low / high) classification.
1. The Muscular involvement (gross/fine) classification.
Based on the degree of bodily movement, or the precision of movement needed.
2. The Environmental influence (open/closed)
Based on the stability of the environment or situation in which the skill is being performed.
3. The Continuity (discrete/serial/continuous)
Based on the relationship between sub-routines, and how clearly defined the beginning and end of the skill are to observers.
4. The pacing (self paced/externally paced) continuum.
Based on degree of control performer has over the skill being carried out. Refers to the amount of control for both the timing and speed of movement.
5. The difficulty (simple/complex) classification.
Based on the complexity of the movement, depending on the amount of information to process, time available to make decision, number of sub-routines and the use of feedback during performance.
6. The organisation (low/high)
Based on the type of skill and the way in which it is made up or organised can also be classified so that effective teacher and learning can take placed., May have elements or sub routines.
Homework questions
1. A continuum is used to classify skills. The continuity continuum contains three elements – discrete, serial and continuous whilst the environmental continuum contains open and closed skills. Use practical examples to explain each of these elements.
(5 MARKS)
2. Identify three characteristics of a ‘complex’ skill.
(3 MARKS)
3. Give two examples of a ‘low organisation’ skill.
(2 MARKS)4. Identify and explain five characteristics of a skillful performance.
(5 MARKS)
5. How can the use of classification systems assist a teacher/coach when deciding which training or practice method is the most appropriate.
(3 MARKS)
TOTAL 18 MARKS
(5 MARKS)
2. Identify three characteristics of a ‘complex’ skill.
(3 MARKS)
3. Give two examples of a ‘low organisation’ skill.
(2 MARKS)4. Identify and explain five characteristics of a skillful performance.
(5 MARKS)
5. How can the use of classification systems assist a teacher/coach when deciding which training or practice method is the most appropriate.
(3 MARKS)
TOTAL 18 MARKS