Using video based technology to enhance perceptual-cognitive skills across sports

Extant research examining Perceptual-Cognitive Skills (PCS) used video based technology (Mann et al, 2007). Most of the research has focused on exploring skill level differences in the ability to anticipate, generate options and make a decision during scenarios of developing plays (Ward et al., 2008). Furthermore, studies have also investigated the underlying mechanisms (e.g., gaze behavior, memory/knowledge base) that provide experts the ability to perform consistently and successfully (Davids, Renshaw & Glazier, 2005). However, the transfer of knowledge gained from the research domain to the applied domain has been limited. Thus, there is a need to develop reliable and valid perceptual-cognitive measurement tools and training methods. We provide an overview of approaches for developing meaningful methods to use video-based technology to track and train players’ PCS. The approach is based on a longitudinal two-stage series of projects in which video based measurement and training methods are assessed across a series of sports (e.g., cricket, football, soccer, judo). In the first stage various measurement methods (e.g., varying the video content – spatial and temporal occlusion, and the response method – pen and paper, full body movement) are explored for identifying the most reliable and valid tool. The second stage is based on findings from the first stage. The most reliable measurement tool is used to track improvement over time and to identify the best PCS training method (e.g., implicit and explicit). Additionally, the use of (a) a real-world performance task, (b) coaches’ evaluation of development, and (d) self-evaluation of development, are explored. The overall aim is to develop video-based technology to improve PCS and subsequently performance.