Blocked Practice

Definition

Blocked practice is a motor learning strategy where a learner practices the same skill repeatedly for a set period of time, focusing on one task or variation before moving on to another. This approach can enhance performance during practice sessions but may not translate as effectively to real-world settings or game situations compared to more varied practice methods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Blocked practice typically leads to better short-term performance outcomes, as learners can focus intensively on mastering one skill at a time.
2. While blocked practice is effective for beginners in the cognitive stage of learning, it may limit the development of adaptive skills needed in unpredictable environments.
3. In contrast to random practice, blocked practice may hinder long-term retention and transfer of skills to different contexts or situations.
4. Research suggests that high contextual interference through varied practice (like random practice) can lead to superior learning outcomes over time.
5. Using blocked practice can be useful in rehabilitation settings where specific skills need to be relearned before introducing variability.

Review Questions

• How does blocked practice influence performance during the cognitive stage of learning motor skills?
  • Blocked practice can significantly enhance performance during the cognitive stage as it allows learners to focus intensively on one skill without distractions. This concentrated repetition helps them understand the mechanics and techniques involved. However, while it may improve immediate performance metrics, it does not necessarily prepare learners for the unpredictability they will face when applying these skills in real-world scenarios.
• Compare and contrast the effects of blocked practice and random practice on the retention and transfer of motor skills.
  • Blocked practice generally leads to better performance outcomes in immediate tasks, as learners can concentrate on one skill at a time. However, random practice fosters greater retention and transfer because it introduces variability and challenges learners to adapt their skills in diverse contexts. This variability helps improve problem-solving abilities and prepares learners for more complex situations outside of controlled practice environments.
• Evaluate the implications of using blocked practice in physical therapy settings and its potential impact on patient recovery.
  • Using blocked practice in physical therapy can offer clear benefits by allowing patients to focus on specific movements they need to relearn after an injury. This method provides structured and repetitive opportunities to build confidence in executing those movements accurately. However, therapists should be cautious about transitioning to more variable practices as patients progress. Failing to introduce variability may hinder their ability to apply these skills effectively in everyday life scenarios, thus impacting overall recovery.

Related terms

Random Practice: A practice method where learners perform a variety of skills in a random order, which enhances the ability to transfer skills to new situations.

Massed Practice: A practice schedule that involves longer, uninterrupted sessions of practice with little or no rest between trials, often leading to fatigue.

Contextual Interference: The interference that results from practicing multiple skills in a mixed order, which can enhance retention and transfer of motor skills.