Motor skills form a crucial foundation for an individual's ability to function and lead a physically active lifestyle that lasts a lifetime. Skills acquired in childhood and adolescence not only aid in navigating daily life but also support future movement and athletic development. Diverse motor skills lay the groundwork for learning specific sports skills and experiencing the joy of physical activity at different life stages.
The skill area approaches the learning of motor skills comprehensively, learner-centered, and contextually. Its theoretical framework is based on ecological dynamics, according to which movement and learning occur in constant interaction between the mover, the task, and the environment. This perspective challenges the traditional instructor-centered thinking and emphasizes the active role of the individual, the adaptability of the learning environment, and the importance of intrinsic motivation.
Motivation is the driving force behind all learning, including sports skills. In learning sports skills, the role of intrinsic motivation is particularly emphasized.
The skill area's environment is designed to support different areas of basic needs:
- Autonomy:
Autonomy is strengthened when an individual feels they have control over their actions. The skill area nurtures the individual's own problem-solving abilities and creativity in producing movement. There are no right answers or frameworks on how a particular movement should be performed. This allows movement according to one's skill level.
- Competence:
Experiences of competence and development reinforce competence. The skill area provides ample opportunities to modify exercises and tasks according to individual needs, enhancing experiences of success and capability.
- Relatedness:
Cooperation and interaction create security and strengthen team spirit.
When basic needs are met, learning is sustained and meaningful. The instructor can support motivation with feedback, by varying task implementation, paying attention to group dynamics, and grouping students appropriately.
Image: Toni Rosvall
