Transfer of expert visual anticipation to a similar domain

Q J Exp Psychol (Hove). 2014;67(1):186-96. doi: 10.1080/17470218.2013.798003. Epub 2013 May 23.

Abstract

The experiment reported in this paper examined the capability of expert and near-expert baseball batters and novices to transfer anticipatory skill to a cricket batting prediction task. A video-simulation temporal occlusion paradigm was used to first assess the anticipatory skill of expertise groups in a baseball batting prediction task (learning sport) and, second, to assess the capability of expertise groups to transfer anticipation skill to a cricket batting prediction task (transfer sport). Results showed that expert and near-expert baseball batters were superior to novices at anticipating pitch type based upon pre-ball-flight advance information. Only expert baseball batters were capable of transferring their anticipatory skill to predict delivery type based upon advance information in the bowler's action, whilst near-experts and novices relied upon ball-flight information. The findings extend understanding of transfer of learning in the motor domain and some theoretical/empirical concepts of transfer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Baseball
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motion Perception / physiology*
  • Motivation / physiology*
  • Professional Competence*
  • Psychomotor Performance / physiology*
  • Transfer, Psychology / physiology*
  • Young Adult