Methods of Guidance

Methods of Guidance

1. Visual

   • Demonstration of required task
   • Aims to create mental image for performers
   • Can be given by coach ot another player
   • Can be given by using media formats
   • If demo given by fellow player, it should be within capabilities fo performers
   • Demo should be repeated and allow performers to practice
   • Demo should be shown from different angles
   • Key points of skill should be highlighted and reinforcement should be used to encourage retention of the skill in the memory
   • Advantages
     • Can be used to highlight specific weaknesses
       • Tries to show what the skill looks like as a result of practice
         • Creates a mental image
           • Nearly always used in combo with verbal guidance
   • Disadvantages
     • Demo must be completely accurate
       • If too much information is given, performer may become confused
         • Needs to be steady and slow

2. Verbal

   • An explanation of the task
   • Helps build correct mental image
   • Can also be used by an experienced player when technical and detailed advice can be given to complement the actions in practice
   • Can be used to explain aspects of conditioning or fitness, perhaps when a more physical type of session is planned and the coach may only need to describe and explain the content of the session without the need for a visual demonstration
   • Problems and considerations
     • If too much information given, may cause confusion
     • Performer may lose concentration unless verbal info is brief
     • Language used by the coach should be understandable
       • A beginner may not recognise technical terms that would be understood by an expert
     • Verbal guidance is a means of giving feedback so the coach should ensure that the correct type of feedback is used for the performer

3. Manual

   • Involves physical support
     • E.g. holding a gymnast on a vault or during a headstand
   • Can involve a type of forced response e.g. when a coach holds the arm of a tennis player to help them learn the movement of a forehand
   • Advantages
     • Eliminates danger
       • Helps build confidence
         • Fear and anxiety associated with dangerous tasks reduced
   • Disadvantages
     • Can have detrimental effect is over-used
       • Over-reliance on physical support could begin to interfere with feel of task
         • Performer may depend on the support too much and be unable to do the task without physical help
           • Being in close proximity to performer may be off-putting

4. Mechanical

   • A device used to help performance
     • E.g. armbands in swimming, harness on trampoline
   • Advantages
     • Builds confidence
       • Eliminates danger
         • Gives an early feel for whole skill
           • Can be used with disabled/injured athletes
   • Disadvantages
     • If used for too much time, can interfere with feel of task
       • Might depend on it too much
         • If performer doesn't feel they are performing independently, incorrect intrinsic feedback could be given and motivation could be lost