Which phase of motor learning is characterized by the motor skill becoming mostly automatic?

Which phase of motor learning is characterized by the motor skill becoming mostly automatic?

• A. Associative Phase
• B. Autonomous Phase
• C. Cognitive Phase
• D. Expert Phase

Answer: (B)

The motor learning process is typically divided into three phases: cognitive, associative, and autonomous. The autonomous phase is where the motor skill has become mostly automatic. In this stage, the learner can perform the skill with minimal conscious effort, which allows for multitasking and a focus on additional aspects of performance or strategy rather than the mechanics of the skill itself. At this point, the individual has practiced the skill enough to achieve a high level of proficiency, leading to improved timing, efficiency, and fluidity of movement. Feedback and correction are still beneficial, but the individual can rely on their internal sense of outcomes, making corrections autonomously without significant thought or analysis of each movement. This phase represents the highest level of motor learning, where skills are perfected to the degree that executing them becomes second nature. This contrasts with the cognitive and associative phases, where skills require more conscious thought and focused practice. In the cognitive phase, learners are just beginning to understand the skill and often need extensive feedback and guidance. The associative phase is characterized by refinement and practice, where learners improve but still have to think about their movements more consciously than in the autonomous phase. Understanding the stages of motor learning is crucial in health education, physical education, and coaching, as it helps

The motor learning process is typically divided into three phases: cognitive, associative, and autonomous. The autonomous phase is where the motor skill has become mostly automatic. In this stage, the learner can perform the skill with minimal conscious effort, which allows for multitasking and a focus on additional aspects of performance or strategy rather than the mechanics of the skill itself.

At this point, the individual has practiced the skill enough to achieve a high level of proficiency, leading to improved timing, efficiency, and fluidity of movement. Feedback and correction are still beneficial, but the individual can rely on their internal sense of outcomes, making corrections autonomously without significant thought or analysis of each movement.

This phase represents the highest level of motor learning, where skills are perfected to the degree that executing them becomes second nature. This contrasts with the cognitive and associative phases, where skills require more conscious thought and focused practice. In the cognitive phase, learners are just beginning to understand the skill and often need extensive feedback and guidance. The associative phase is characterized by refinement and practice, where learners improve but still have to think about their movements more consciously than in the autonomous phase.

Understanding the stages of motor learning is crucial in health education, physical education, and coaching, as it helps