What is an essential characteristic of effective feedback in motor skill learning?

Effective feedback in motor skill learning must be specific and timely to support the learning of the skill in question. Specific feedback provides clear information about what aspects of performance were successful or need improvement, which helps learners understand exactly what they did right or wrong. Timeliness is equally critical; feedback delivered soon after the performance allows learners to make connections between the feedback and their actions, enhancing the retention and application of that information in future attempts.

This characteristic promotes adjustments and refinements in technique, ensuring that learners can make meaningful progress. Additionally, timely feedback encourages motivation and engagement, as learners are more likely to feel supported and understand their learning trajectory. The combination of specificity and timeliness in feedback is essential for effective skill acquisition, as it helps to reinforce desirable behaviors and correct errors efficiently.