Feedback and Skill Improvement
Feedback is a critical factor in motor learning because it helps performers understand how well a skill has been performed and how it can be improved. In IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS), feedback explains why practice alone is not always enough and how guidance accelerates skill development.
Effective feedback supports learning by reinforcing correct movements and identifying errors.
What Is Feedback in Motor Learning?
Feedback is information received by a performer about their performance or movement outcome. It helps performers evaluate their actions and make adjustments during practice.
In IB SEHS, feedback is divided into two main types:
- Intrinsic feedback
- Extrinsic feedback
Both types play important roles at different stages of learning.
Intrinsic Feedback
Intrinsic feedback is information that comes from the performer’s own sensory systems.
This includes:
- Visual feedback (seeing the movement)
- Kinaesthetic feedback (feeling the movement)
- Auditory feedback (hearing contact or rhythm)
Intrinsic feedback becomes more important as performers gain experience and develop better error-detection abilities.
Extrinsic Feedback
Extrinsic feedback is information provided by an external source, such as a coach, teacher, or video analysis.
Common forms include:
- Verbal feedback
- Visual demonstrations
- Video replay
Extrinsic feedback is particularly valuable in the early stages of learning when performers lack the ability to identify errors themselves.
Knowledge of Results and Knowledge of Performance
Extrinsic feedback is often categorised into two forms.
Knowledge of results:
- Information about the outcome
- Focuses on success or failure
- Example: “The shot missed the target”
Knowledge of performance:
- Information about movement quality
- Focuses on technique
- Example: “Your elbow dropped during the throw”
In IB SEHS, knowledge of performance is often more effective for improving technique.
Timing and Frequency of Feedback
Feedback must be timed appropriately to support learning.
Effective feedback is:
- Not too frequent
- Given at appropriate moments
- Focused on key aspects of performance
Excessive feedback can create dependence and reduce a performer’s ability to self-correct.
Feedback and Stages of Learning
Feedback needs change as performers progress through the stages of skill acquisition.
- Cognitive stage: frequent, clear feedback
- Associative stage: more specific and reduced feedback
- Autonomous stage: minimal feedback, often self-directed
In IB SEHS, linking feedback type to learning stage strengthens exam answers.
Exam Relevance for IB SEHS
Feedback questions often require explanation and application. High-mark answers clearly define feedback types, explain how they support learning, and apply them to specific skill-learning scenarios.
Avoid stating that “feedback helps performance” without explaining how and why.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic feedback?
Intrinsic feedback comes from the performer’s senses, while extrinsic feedback is provided by an external source.
Which type of feedback is most useful for beginners?
Extrinsic feedback is most useful in the early stages of learning.
How is feedback tested in IB SEHS exams?
Students are often asked to explain feedback types and apply them to skill-learning or coaching scenarios.
