Automation

Definition

Automation refers to the process of making a system operate automatically with minimal human intervention, often by using technology or machinery. In the context of motor learning, automation can significantly enhance performance and efficiency by allowing individuals to execute skills with reduced cognitive effort once they become proficient, leading to more fluid and automatic movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Automation is achieved through practice, where repetitive execution of a skill allows for the transition from conscious control to automatic execution.
2. The cognitive theory suggests that during early skill acquisition, learners rely heavily on cognitive processes, but as they practice, those processes become more automatic.
3. Once a skill is automated, it requires less cognitive load, allowing for multitasking or focusing on other aspects of performance.
4. Automation can lead to enhanced consistency in performance, as automated skills are less susceptible to distractions and fatigue.
5. However, over-automation may lead to rigid responses and hinder adaptability in dynamic environments where adjustments are necessary.

Review Questions

• How does automation impact cognitive load during the learning process of a motor skill?
  • As a motor skill becomes automated through practice, the cognitive load required to perform that skill decreases. Initially, learners must focus on various aspects of the task, which consumes significant mental resources. However, once the skill is automated, it requires less conscious thought and allows individuals to redirect their cognitive resources towards other tasks or challenges, ultimately improving overall performance.
• In what ways can feedback influence the automation process in motor learning?
  • Feedback plays a crucial role in facilitating the automation process by providing learners with information about their performance. It helps individuals identify errors and make necessary adjustments during practice. As learners receive feedback and improve their skills, they gradually shift from relying on this information to executing movements automatically. Over time, effective feedback can accelerate the transition from conscious control to automated performance.
• Evaluate the potential drawbacks of over-automation in motor learning and how it may affect an athlete's adaptability.
  • While automation enhances performance efficiency and consistency, over-automation can lead to inflexibility in an athlete's responses. When skills become overly rigid and automatic, athletes may struggle to adapt their movements in response to changing environments or unexpected situations. This lack of adaptability can hinder their overall performance in competitive settings where quick adjustments are crucial. Therefore, it is important for athletes to maintain a balance between automation and the ability to modify their actions as needed.

Related terms

Skill Acquisition:

The process through which individuals learn and develop new motor skills, typically involving stages from cognitive understanding to automated performance.

Cognitive Load:

The amount of mental effort being used in working memory, which can impact the ability to perform tasks, especially during the early stages of learning a skill.

Feedback: Information provided to learners about their performance, which can facilitate improvement and contribute to the automation of skills over time.