Lecture Notes: Motor Development Theoretical Models

Overview

• The lecture covers the theoretical models of motor development.
• Focuses on how movement tasks, biology, and learning environment interact.
• Uses the Hourglass and Mountain metaphor models.

Motor Development Sequence

• Occurs in an orderly sequence from reflexive reactions to advanced motor functioning.
• Developmental milestones with average ages and range.
• Early identification of delays is crucial.

Hourglass Model by Gallahue

• Reflexive Movement Phase: Birth to 1 year; Information encoding and decoding stages.
• Rudimentary Movement Phase: 1-2 years; Reflex inhibition and pre-control stages.
• Fundamental Movement Phase: 2-7 years; Initial, elementary, and mature stages.
• Specialized Movement Phase: 7 years and up; Transition, application, and utilization stages.

Key Concepts

• Reflexive phase involves involuntary movements.
• Rudimentary phase involves voluntary movements and basic skills.
• Fundamental movement phase emphasizes developing fundamental skills.
• Specialized movement phase involves advanced refinement of skills.

Triangulated Hourglass Model

• Age ranges are general guidelines, not strict.
• Considers hereditary and environmental factors.
• Highlights flexibility in development.

Mountain Model of Motor Development

• Developed by Clark and Metcalfe.
• Emphasizes individual paths and adaptability.
• Six phases: Reflexive, pre-adaptive, fundamental, context-specific, skillful, compensation.

Comparison and Complement

• Both models focus on stages of development but differ in flexibility and adaptability.
• Mountain model allows for more individualized pacing and adaptation.

Key Phases of Mountain Model

• Reflexive Period: Involuntary reactions; prenatal to postnatal.
• Pre-Adaptive Period: Emergence of voluntary movements.
• Fundamental Motor Patterns: Includes running, jumping; develops throughout childhood.
• Context-Specific and Skillful Periods: Refinement and specialization.
• Compensation: Adapting to decline or injury.

Importance of Motor Skills

• Fundamental to overall development, including cognitive and social aspects.
• Early identification and intervention can help address delays.

Conclusion

• Motor development is a complex process influenced by both inherent and environmental factors.
• Models provide frameworks to understand and support the development.
• Emphasize patience and individualized approaches in learning environments.