Discuss the application of blocked and random practice methods for athletes at different stages of learning a team sport like netball. (6 marks)
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*PEEL – Solution is structured using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
Blocked practice benefits early-stage netball learners:
- [P] Blocked practice suits cognitive-stage players learning basic skills.
- [E] Beginners need repetition without task-switching complexity to develop fundamental techniques correctly.
- [Ev] In this practice method, new players could practice 50 chest passes in a row to establish proper hand positioning and release.
- [L] Therefore, blocked practice provides the consistency needed for initial skill acquisition.
- [P] Associative-stage players still benefit from some blocked practice.
- [E] Repeating specific movements helps refine technique weaknesses while building confidence.
- [Ev] Players struggling with shooting accuracy would practice many goal shots from the same position using this method.
- [L] Thus, blocked practice remains useful for targeted skill improvement at intermediate levels.
Random practice better prepares advanced players:
- [P] Random practice develops game-ready skills in autonomous players.
- [E] Constantly switching between passing, shooting, and defending mirrors actual match demands.
- [Ev] Elite players train with drills combining unexpected passes, defensive pressure, and quick shooting decisions.
- [L] This variability ensures skills transfer effectively to competitive games.
- [P] Random practice produces superior long-term retention.
- [E] Although blocked practice shows faster initial improvement, random practice creates lasting skill development.
- [Ev] Players practicing varied skills retain abilities better after off-season breaks than those using blocked methods.
- [L] Therefore, random practice provides more durable learning outcomes for advanced netball players.
*PEEL – Solution is structured using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
Blocked practice benefits early-stage netball learners:
- [P] Blocked practice suits cognitive-stage players learning basic skills.
- [E] Beginners need repetition without task-switching complexity to develop fundamental techniques correctly.
- [Ev] In this practice method, new players could practice 50 chest passes in a row to establish proper hand positioning and release.
- [L] Therefore, blocked practice provides the consistency needed for initial skill acquisition.
- [P] Associative-stage players still benefit from some blocked practice.
- [E] Repeating specific movements helps refine technique weaknesses while building confidence.
- [Ev] Players struggling with shooting accuracy would practice many goal shots from the same position using this method.
- [L] Thus, blocked practice remains useful for targeted skill improvement at intermediate levels.
Random practice better prepares advanced players:
- [P] Random practice develops game-ready skills in autonomous players.
- [E] Constantly switching between passing, shooting, and defending mirrors actual match demands.
- [Ev] Elite players train with drills combining unexpected passes, defensive pressure, and quick shooting decisions.
- [L] This variability ensures skills transfer effectively to competitive games.
- [P] Random practice produces superior long-term retention.
- [E] Although blocked practice shows faster initial improvement, random practice creates lasting skill development.
- [Ev] Players practicing varied skills retain abilities better after off-season breaks than those using blocked methods.
- [L] Therefore, random practice provides more durable learning outcomes for advanced netball players.