HHK 352 - Motor Learning

The focus of this course is on skill acquisition with primary consideration given to the cognitive and motor processes underlying the learning of skills, as well as the factors that influence skill learning. To give context to motor learning, the initial focus of the course is on motor development. Here we will focus on the cognitive, physical, social, and behavioral developmental and maturational issues that influence learning throughout the lifespan. The course is geared toward those students preparing for a career in which motor skill instruction is an important part of the job, as is the case with physical education teachers, dance instructors, coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, personal trainers, and physical and occupational therapists or other pre-health professions. The goal is to provide students with a foundation for understanding the learning process and how different factors influence the course of learning; the characteristics and capabilities of the persons with whom they will work; and the effectiveness of various instructional strategies. Prerequisite: HHK 114 or consent of instructor. Spring