Developing a skill acquisition framework for youth sport in Singapore

Abstract

Skill acquisition research has great potential to inform coaching practices and can impact skill development, especially at the youth developmental stage. However, it is not always easy for coaches to envision how research findings can be applied on the ground. The Skill Acquisition Framework for youth sport in Singapore is aimed at providing an easy to understand evidence-based resource for coaches on the topic of skill acquisition. The framework consists of 3 dimensions (i.e., Desirable characteristics of youth athletes, Key Concepts and Key Design Principles). Each of these dimensions will enable coaches to reflect on their current practices and facilitate discussions in a systematic manner. The first dimension provides coaches with the opportunity to think about the most important characteristics that they want to develop in youth athletes (motivated, adaptable, robust under pressure). The second dimension of the framework introduces Key Concepts related to skill acquisition that are crucial for coaches to consider when working with athletes. Finally, the third dimension presents the Key Design Principles that can underpin the design of training sessions.