MA536 Movement learning and ecological dynamics (5 ECTS) 

Course facts

Course code
MA536
Course title
Movement learning and ecological dynamics
ECTS
5 ECTS
Semester
Fall
Course language
English
Academic responsible
James Rudd

Introduction

In this hands-on practical course, we are going to learn how to teach the Constrains Led Approach. This module will be 100% practical and we will delve into how manipulating constraints through the CLA can help students find appropriate and functional solutions to relevant skill development problems. This will be underpinned by discussions and exploration of the key principles of CLA, most notably the concept of metastability.

Metastability is related to a behavioural state where information does not offer a stable movement solution, but instead creates a meta-stable region where the performer will demonstrate a significant increase in creativity and exploration of movement solutions. This module will emphasize non-linear approaches to skill learning where the emphasis is shifted away from technical models, towards learning environments that are rich with information which encourages performers to develop skills through exploration.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should be able to

  • teach multiple sports and movement activities through the Constraint Led Approach
  • define the key differences between the Constraint Led Approach and other teaching based pedagogical practices 
  • manipulate practice during the session to place performers in meta-stable regions to enhance their learning and skilled performances 

Learning styles and activities

Practical teaching, online lectures and self-directed study. 

Mandatory assignment

A minimum of 80 % attendance will be required for successful completion of this course. Active engagement in all aspects of the course is expected, especially when being taught by peers.
Assignment must be approved before final examination.

Assessment

Assessment in the course consists of two assignments. Each assignment is worth 50 % and graded A-F.   

  1. Assignement: Students will lead a Constraint Led Approach lesson for their peers.
  2. Assignement: They will present their reflections on how they navigated the nuances of delivering the the Constraint Led Approach to create metastability in learning.  

Core material

CORE LITERATURE:

2 BOOKS:
Chow, J. Y., Davids, K., Button, C., & Renshaw, I. (2022). Nonlinear pedagogy in skill acquisition: An introduction (2nd ed.). Routledge.
* You may borrow the book from the library: ORIA
** The book is also available online: Click here to download. (NB! 3 users at time)
*** NB! To open this book off campus, you need to log on VPN: Click here to download.

Rudd, J., Renshaw, I., Savelsbergh, G., Chow, J. Y., Roberts, W., Newcombe, D., & Davids, K. (2021). Nonlinear pedagogy and the athletic skills model: The importance of play in supporting physical literacy. Routledge. 
* You may borrow the book from the library: ORIA.
** The book is also available online: Click here to download
*** NB! To open this book off campus, you need to log on VPN: Click here to download.

5 ARTICLES FROM ELECTRONIC JOURNALS
:
Chow, J. Y., Komar, J., & Seifert, L. (2021). The role of nonlinear pedagogy in supporting the design of modified games in junior sports. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.744814
[Review article]
* This article is available online: Click here to download.

O'Sullivan, M., Vaughan, J., Rumbold, J. L., & Davids, K. (2022). The learning in development research framework for sports organizations. Sport, Education and Society, 27(9), 1100-1114. https://doi.org/10.1080/13573322.2021.1966618
* This article is available online: Click here to download.

Renshaw, I., Chow, J., Davids, K., & Hammond, J. (2010). A constraints-led perspective to understanding skill acquisition and game play: A basis for integration of motor learning theory and physical education praxis? Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, 15(2), 117-137. https://doi.org/10.1080/17408980902791586
* This article is available online: Click here to download.
** NB! To open this article off campus, you need to log on VPN: Click here to download.

Rudd, J. R., Woods, C., Correia, V., Seifert, L., & Davids, K. (2021). An ecological dynamics conceptualisation of physical ‘education’: Where we have been and where we could go next. Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, 26(3), 293-306. https://doi.org/10.1080/17408989.2021.1886271
* This article is available online: Click here to download.

Savelsbergh, G. J. P., & Wormhoudt, R. (2018). Creating adaptive athletes: The athletic skills model for enhancing physical literacy as a foundation for expertise. Movement & Sport Sciences, (102), 31-38. https://doi.org/10.1051/sm/2019004
* This article is available online: Click here to download.