ABSTRACT
R egardless of the method used to present a skill, before instruction begins the practitioner must consider two factors that will directly influence learning. First, it is critical to capture learners’ undivided attention before introducing the skill. The practitioner can accomplish this by making sure instruction takes place in a location that is free of background distractions. The set-up or formation should allow all of the learners to see and hear the instructor clearly; if instruction takes place outdoors, the learners should be positioned with their backs to the sun. Finally, the instructor should direct learners to place equipment such as balls, hand weights, surgical tubing, and rackets away from the instruction area to eliminate any temptation to play with them. Lack of attention, even for a brief moment, will result in learners missing important information needed for successful skill development (Abernethy, 1993).
