Question 1: Define 'input' in the context of information processing in sport.

Answer: Input refers to the sensory information received from the environment through senses such as sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.

Question 2: Describe the role of the central nervous system (CNS) in information processing during physical activity.

Answer: The CNS, comprising the brain and spinal cord, processes sensory information received from the body and coordinates appropriate responses, such as movement or decision-making.

Question 3: Explain what is meant by 'perception' in sports performance and give an example.

Answer: Perception is the process of interpreting sensory information to understand the environment. For example, a goalkeeper perceives the speed and direction of an incoming ball to decide how to react.

Question 4: Identify and describe the three stages of the information processing model used by athletes.

Answer: The three stages are: 1. Input - receiving sensory information; 2. Decision making - interpreting information and choosing an appropriate response; 3. Output - executing the response, such as a movement.

Question 5: In a fast-paced game, why is quick decision-making important for an athlete? Provide a reason related to information processing.

Answer: Quick decision-making is important because it allows the athlete to process sensory information rapidly and respond in time to maintain performance and react effectively to opponents.

Question 6: Describe the role of response time in sports and how it relates to information processing.

Answer: Response time is the duration between receiving sensory input and executing a motor response. Faster response times indicate more efficient information processing, giving athletes an advantage.

Question 7: Sketch a diagram of the information processing model used in sports, including the three main stages. Label each stage clearly.

Answer: A diagram with three boxes in sequence labeled: Input (sensory receptors), Decision making (brain processing), Output (muscular response). Arrows connect the boxes to show flow.

Question 8: Explain how training can improve an athlete's information processing speed.

Answer: Training can enhance neural pathways and reaction times, enabling faster perception, decision-making, and responses during competition.

Question 9: Identify two factors that can affect an athlete’s ability to process information quickly and explain their impact.

Answer: Factors include fatigue, which can slow down neural processing, and distraction, which can impair perception and decision-making accuracy.

Question 10: Imagine you are coaching a sprinter who reacts slowly at the start of a race. What aspect of information processing might be causing this, and how could you help improve it?

Answer: The sprinter may have a slow response time due to delayed decision-making or reaction to the starting gun. To improve, practice reaction drills and simulate race start scenarios to enhance processing speed.

Question 11: Draw a flowchart illustrating the process an athlete goes through when reacting to a sudden opponent move during a game. Include all relevant stages.

Answer: A flowchart with the following stages: Sensory detection → Perception and interpretation → Decision making → Motor response execution. The flow should be linear with arrows pointing from one stage to the next.