Direct and Constraints Based Approaches

Question 1

What is ‘direct based approaches’?

Answer 1

Coaches instruct via demonstrations and feedback.

Question 2

What is ‘constraints based approaches’?

Answer 2

Constraints based approaches to coaching means that we are using boundaries or placing restrictions on the learner in order to shape the athletes self-organising movement patterns and decision making processes.

Question 3

What are the disadvantages with ‘direct based approaches’?

Answer 3

• The athlete never has to make any decisions for themselves. This lack of opportunity to make decisions can affect their decision making during competition.
• Limits the athlete’s need to find solutions to movements and skills that suit their needs as an athlete.

Question 4

In reference to ‘direct based approaching’, what does the coach require when making decisions?

Answer 4

• Task selection
• Task sequencing
• Duration of time spent on practice tasks
• How tasks will be modified to make them easier or harder as required.
• How techniques will be refined and implemented.

Question 5

What are the 3 categories ‘constraints based approaches’ are classified in?

Answer 5

• Individual constraints (such as technical skills, body size, body strength).
• Environmental constraints (such as the physical environment (weather, natural light, access to facilities)).
• Social/Cultural environment (such as family expectations, peer group expectations and cultural expectations).

Question 6

What could affect the constraints put in place?

Answer 6

• Players on the team
• Dimensions of the playing space
• Rules of the sport