HMS, BM EQ-Bank 540 MC

A tennis coach observes that a beginner player frequently makes large errors when attempting a forehand stroke, struggles to coordinate the footwork with the arm movement, and requires regular demonstrations to understand the technique.

In which stage of skill acquisition is this tennis player most likely to be?

Cognitive stage
Associative stage
Autonomous stage
Refinement stage

Show Answers Only

\(A\)

Show Worked Solution

A is correct: Frequent large errors, coordination difficulties, and reliance on demonstrations are key characteristics of the cognitive stage where learners are understanding what to do.

Other Options:

B is incorrect: The associative stage would show fewer and smaller errors with improved coordination.
C is incorrect: The autonomous stage would display automatic execution with minimal errors.
D is incorrect: “Refinement stage” is not a recognised stage in the three-stage process of skill acquisition.