The Science of Learning: How Cognitive Load Theory Can Benefit Hockey Coaching
Think about that sales pitch you heard last week. Do you remember the benefits of that service or product or how it was going to improve your life?
What about that message your heard at church? Can you recall the three biggest points?
Let's even think about that TED talk you watched on YouTube? Do you remember the actionable takeaways?
I do not either. Why? Most presenters (including hockey coaches) are terrible at sharing and delivering a message that sticks. This is because they either do not know about cognitive load theory or they do know about it but just choose to disregard it. This has to stop.
As a hockey coach, you are tasked with not only teaching your players the fundamentals of the game but also ensuring that they retain information. One way to improve your coaching techniques is by understanding cognitive load theory and how it applies to hockey coaching. We will explore the three types of cognitive load – intrinsic, extraneous, and germane – and how they can benefit your coaching.
1. Intrinsic Load in Hockey Coaching
The intrinsic load in hockey coaching refers to the inherent complexity of the game itself. Hockey is a fast-paced and dynamic sport, with players constantly making split-second decisions based on a multitude of variables, such as positioning, opponent movement, and puck trajectory. As such, the intrinsic load of hockey coaching is relatively high, and coaches need to be aware of this when designing their training programs.
One way coaches can manage the intrinsic load is by breaking down complex skills or strategies into smaller, more manageable parts. For example, rather than teaching a new offensive strategy all at once, coaches may start by teaching their players how to execute specific passes or shots that are essential to that strategy. Once players have mastered these individual skills, coaches can then begin to integrate them into more complex gameplay scenarios.
2. Extraneous Load in Hockey Coaching
The extraneous load in hockey coaching refers to any factors that may impede a player's ability to learn or perform a skill. This could include distractions such as noise or visual clutter, as well as cognitive demands that are not directly related to the skill being taught. For example, a coach may be teaching a player how to execute a particular skating technique, but if the player is also trying to remember a laundry list of other instructions or worrying about making a mistake, their cognitive load will be too high to effectively learn the new skill.
Coaches can manage the extraneous load by reducing unnecessary distractions and providing clear, concise instructions that are focused on the specific skill being taught. They can also use visual aids such as diagrams or video footage to help players better understand the skill or strategy being taught.
3. Germane Load in Hockey Coaching
The germane load in hockey coaching refers to the cognitive effort required to learn and master a new skill or strategy. This includes the mental processes involved in acquiring new information, processing it, and integrating it into existing knowledge structures. Coaches can optimize the germane load by providing relevant and meaningful practice opportunities that allow players to develop their skills and strategies in a realistic and game-like context.
One way coaches can enhance the germane load is by using deliberate practice techniques that are designed to challenge players and help them develop their skills more effectively. This could involve breaking down complex skills into smaller, more manageable parts, providing immediate feedback on performance, and gradually increasing the difficulty of practice drills over time.
Final Thoughts
Cognitive load theory offers a valuable framework for understanding how players learn and how coaches can optimize their teaching methods to improve player performance. By managing the intrinsic, extraneous, and germane loads of hockey coaching, coaches can help their players develop their skills and strategies more effectively, leading to improved performance on the ice.
