Author Description

<p> Based on the latest research from the field, <i> Motor Learning and Development</i> explains how motor development affects motor learning and provides a framework for establishing programs that facilitate skill acquisition for all learners. This first-of-its-kind undergraduate text serves as a primary resource for integrating this broad range of material within a single course.<i> Motor Learning and Development </i>examines the development of movement skill in humans from infancy to older adulthood and how differing motor, cognitive, and social abilities affect when, why, and how an individual learns motor skills. </p> <p> <i>Motor Learning and Development</i> begins by providing a foundational understanding of the concepts in motor learning and motor development. Readers will discover the fundamental motor skills developed during childhood as well as the individual functional and structural constraints present in childhood and adolescence. Next, readers explore physical activity and movement in relationship to young, middle, and older adulthood (including the effects of significant life changes such as leaving home, entering the workforce, getting married, and having children) and the social and psychological changes associated with retirement and aging. A unique conclusion brings the text's concepts together to illustrate how to design developmentally appropriate programs for all types of learners. </p> <p> Building on the theoretical knowledge of previous chapters, readers will also learn how to prepare, develop, and implement developmentally appropriate movement programs. The text examines concepts such as these: </p> <p> -Structuring the learning environment to positively influence the physical, instructional, and affective factors in motor learning </p> <p> -Setting goals and introducing motor skills through the use of demonstrations, verbalizations, attention directing, and physical guidance </p> <p> -Designing and structuring effective practice sessions