As opposed to completing a traditional class laboratory, you have the opportunity to go out into the “real world” and watch / help people learn. For instance, you could volunteer as a coach, help at a physiotherapy clinic, etc.
The purpose of the practicum is to see motor learning theory occurring in a real world environment. A practicum for instance at a dental office would not be appropriate. You need to find an environment where people are either learning or re-learning motor skills.
It will be entirely up to you to find an appropriate practicum and verify it’s appropriateness with the course instructor. Only then, will you be allowed to stop attending your assigned laboratory section. DO NOT start missing your assigned laboratory section BEFORE you have an approved practicum in place.
Requirements: 40 hours of volunteer time A supervisor (teacher, medical doctor, physiotherapist, etc) Course instructor approval Assessment: Daily Journal (50% of practicum grade: 7.5% of course grade) In this journal you will summarize what you did with each unit of time (each practice, game, volunteer session). You need to specifically describe what you did in detail and what you “learned”. You need to also relate what you see to course concepts and content. I would strongly advise showing me your first entry or two to ensure you are on the right track. Written Summary Paper (50 % of practicum grade: 7.5% of course grade) You will write a 6 to 8 page paper detailing how you either observed or integrated course content during your practicum. For instance, you may choose to try some of the learning improvement strategies we discuss in class or you may see the stages of learning occur. This paper is an opinion paper and the format is largely up to your but it must VERY CLEARLY relate things you saw to course content. Further, you must reference course content with the appropriate citations. The paper must also meet APA guidelines. Verification of Hours You must track / record your hours and your “supervisor” must sign off on these hours. The lab coordinator will also be personally contacting all supervisors to verify that you have completed the appropriate number of volunteer hours.
Due: All practicums must be completed before the end of the current semester.