OBJECTIVES Findings from the contemporary
psychological and movement science literature
that appear to have implications for medical
training are reviewed. Specifically, the review
focuses on four factors that have been shown to
enhance the learning of motor skills: observational
practice; the learner’s focus of attention;
feedback, and self-controlled practice.
OBSERVATIONAL PRACTICE Observation of
others, particularly when it is combined with
physical practice, can make important contributions
to learning. This includes dyad practice
(i.e. practice in pairs), which is not only
cost-effective, but can also enhance learning.
FOCUS OF ATTENTION Studies examining
the role of the performer’s focus of attention
have consistently demonstrated that instructions
inducing an external focus (directed at
the movement effect) are more effective than
those promoting an internal focus (directed at
the performer’s body movements). An external
focus facilitates automaticity in motor control
and promotes movement efficiency.