Related Links
Project Summary
| Difficulty | 6 |
| Time required | Long (a couple of weeks) |
Donate to Science Buddies
|
Internet Safety Tips |
| Get educated about online safety with help from Symantec. symantec.com/norton/familyresources |
| * Note: This is an abbreviated project idea, without notes to start your background research or a procedure for how to do the experiment. You can identify abbreviated project ideas by the asterisk at the end of the title. If you want a project idea with full instructions, please pick one without an asterisk. |
Abstract
We've all heard that "practice makes perfect," but what is the best way to practice? For example, does "mental practice" do any good? You'll need at least 9 volunteers for this project. Pick a well-defined sports activity, with a measurable outcome, such as shooting basketball free-throws (measure number of shots taken and number of shots made), or balancing on one foot on a slightly raised beam (measure how long you can do it; if it's too easy, try closing your eyes). Test all volunteers and record their performance. Assign one group to physically practice the activity daily for a specified amount of time; assign a second group to mentally practice the activity daily for the same amount of time; assign a third group to refrain from practicing the activity. Test performance of all volunteers again both 1 and 2 weeks later. Another idea: does it make a difference if your practice time is done all at once (e.g., one 5-minute session) or spread out during the day (e.g. five 1-minute sessions)? (Wiese, 2002, pp. 11–13; 16–18.)Bibliography
Wiese, J, 2002. Sports Science: 40 Goal-Scoring, High-Flying, Medal-Winning Experiments for Kids. New York: John Wiley and Sons.Variations
- For more science project ideas in this area of science, see Human Behavior Project Ideas.
Last edit date: 2007-01-17 19:50:40
Career Focus
If you like this project, you might want to think about career opportunities in
Human Behavior.
Why people take certain actions can often feel like a mystery. Psychologists help solve these mysteries by investigating the physical, cognitive, emotional, or social aspects of human behavior and the human mind. Some psychologists also apply these findings in order to design better products or to help people change their behaviors. Learn more about this career: Psychologist.
|
Join Science Buddies
Become a Science Buddies member! It's free! As a member you will be the first to receive our new and innovative project ideas, news about upcoming science competitions, science fair tips, and information on other science related initiatives.
Support Science Buddies
If this website has helped you, won't you consider a small gift so we may continue developing resources to help teachers and students?
|
