Self-regulation of learning in sport practices: An ecological dynamics approach

Abstract

Self-regulation of learning (SRL) in sports has received much attention from sport sciences researchers. Zimmerman's theory of SRL is frequently used in sport psychology, which, in turn, is derived from the social cognitive theory of self-regulation developed by Bandura. Despite all the contributions to the domain of expertise in general, and sport in particular, this approach has limitations for the understanding and evaluation of SRL in sport performance. Alternatively, we discuss an ecological dynamics perspective of SRL, emphasizing the transactional relationship established between performers and environment as an alternative to attribute to metacognition the explanation for goal directed behaviour, as they self-regulate their performance behaviours. We also discuss methodological consequences for capturing SRL in sport performance guided by an ecological dynamics framework.

Keywords

• Self-regulation of learning
• Intentions
• Expertise development
• Ecological dynamics
• Affordances
• Eco-physical variables