Toward an Interdisciplinary Perspective

Abstract

Researchers have yet to agree on an approach that supports how adults best learn novel motor skills in formal educational contexts. The literature fails to adequately discuss adult motor learning from the standpoint of adult education. Instead, the subject is addressed by other disciplines. This review attempts to integrate perspectives across disciplines to enhance understanding of adult motor learning. The review suggests a disciplinary disconnect but finds several potential integrations: (a) a unifying framework between representational motor learning models and reflective practice; (b) the applicability of modeling approaches to experiential frameworks; (c) the relationship between chaining, motor programs, variability of practice, and analogy learning to “doing” and “action” in experiential learning; and (d) the role of embedded motor learning approaches within situated environments. Research should continue to examine how aspects of didactic approaches affect the effectiveness of the modeling approach and how situated learning environments naturalistically use motor learning approaches.