Motor Learning and Control for Practitioners

With an array of critical and engaging pedagogical features, the fifth edition of Motor Learning and Control for Practitioners offers the best practical introduction to motor learning available. This reader-friendly text approaches motor learning in accessible and simple terms and lays a theoretical foundation for assessing performance; providing effective instruction; and designing practice, rehabilitation, and training experiences that promote skill acquisition. Features such as Exploration Activities and Cerebral Challenges involve students at every stage, while a broad range of examples helps readers put theory into practice. The book also provides access to a fully updated companion website, which includes laboratory exercises, an instructors' manual, a test bank, and lecture slides. As a complete resource for teaching an evidence-based approach to practical motor learning, this is an essential text for undergrad and post-grad students, researchers, and practitioners alike who plan to work in the areas of motor learning, motor control, physical education, kinesiology, exercise science, coaching, physical therapy, or dance.

Cheryl A. Coker is a motor learning specialist who draws from her experiences as a teacher, coach, and athlete to assist practitioners in putting theory into practice. In addition to Motor Learning and Control for Practitioners, she has authored numerous journal articles and book chapters, and has given over 100 presentations throughout the United States and internationally. She is a Fellow of the Research Consortium in the Society of Health and Physical Educators and of the North American Society of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sport and Dance Professionals. Coker lives in New Hampshire where she teaches in the Physical Therapy program at Plymouth State University, and enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with family, friends, and her Bernese Mountain Dog, Tucker.

List of Tables and Figures Foreword Preface Chapter 1 - Introduction to Motor Learning and Control Chapter 2 - Understanding Movement Preparation Chapter 3 - The Role of Attention, Arousal and Visual Search in Movement Preparation Chapter 4 - Behavioral Theories of Motor Control Chapter 5 - Neural Mechanisms: Contributions and Control Chapter 6 - Stages of Learning Chapter 7 - The Learner: Pre-Instruction Considerations Chapter 8 - Skill Presentation Chapter 9 - Principles of Practice Design Chapter 10 - Practice Schedules Chapter 11 - Diagnosing Errors Chapter 12 - Correcting Errors Epilogue - Cases References Index