An instructor's manual for Praxis II Exam preparation in the three sub-areas of motor behavior: motor development, motor control, and motor learning.

Abstract

Motor behavior is the area of study in physical education that investigates the principles of human movement behavior. Motor behavior can be subdivided into three related areas: motor development, motor control, and motor learning. The knowledge from the three sub-areas serve as a foundation for college undergraduate and graduate students in physical education, early childhood education, coaching, and sports medicine. Unfortunately, many college motor behavior courses and textbooks are specialized in only one or two of the sub-areas. Thus, many college students graduate with a deficiency of fundamental knowledge from one or two of the sub-areas. In addition, an abundance of content from all three sub-areas of motor behavior is covered on the Praxis II exam, the subject assessment for beginning teachers. Many prospective teachers fail the Praxis II exam because of their motor behavior knowledge deficiency.

The purpose of this manual is to create a guide and an outline for college instructors who teach motor behavior courses. This manual is a synthesis of the main motor development, motor control, and motor learning content that is covered on the Praxis II exams in health and physical education, physical education, and early childhood education. This manual will aid college instructors in obtaining an understanding of the relevant motor behavior information covered on the Praxis II, be useful to college or university departments who offer Praxis tutoring or seminars, and assist students in preparation for the Praxis II exam.