Question 1: Define 'perception' in the context of information processing during sport performance.

Answer: Perception is the process of recognising and interpreting sensory information from the environment to make sense of what is happening around the athlete.

Question 2: Explain the role of the central nervous system in processing information during a game of football.

Answer: The central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) receives sensory information from the body and environment, processes it, and sends signals to muscles to coordinate movement and decision-making.

Question 3: Describe what happens during the 'reaction time' stage of information processing.

Answer: Reaction time is the interval between perceiving a stimulus and initiating a response, involving the recognition of the stimulus and decision-making before movement occurs.

Question 4: Identify two factors that can affect an athlete’s decision-making speed during a match.

Answer: Factors include fatigue, which can slow response times, and stress or anxiety, which can impair concentration and quick decision-making.

Question 5: Explain the difference between 'input' and 'output' in the information processing model.

Answer: Input is the sensory information received from the environment, while output is the physical response or movement generated after processing the input.

Question 6: Describe a situation in sport where quick decision-making is crucial. How does effective information processing help?

Answer: In tennis, a player needs to decide quickly whether to hit a forehand or backhand shot. Effective information processing allows them to interpret the ball's speed, direction, and spin rapidly, leading to a successful shot.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the stages of information processing in sports. Label each stage clearly.

Answer: A diagram showing sensory input entering the brain, being processed in the central nervous system, and resulting in a motor response. Labels should include: 'Stimulus,' 'Perception,' 'Decision-making,' 'Response selection,' 'Motor output.'

Question 8: What is 'selective attention,' and why is it important for athletes during competition?

Answer: Selective attention is the ability to focus on relevant cues while ignoring distractions. It is important because it helps athletes concentrate on key information to make better decisions.

Question 9: Identify and explain one way coaches can help athletes improve their information processing skills.

Answer: Coaches can use scenario-based drills that simulate game situations, helping athletes practice processing information quickly and making decisions under pressure.

Question 10: Describe how experience can influence an athlete’s ability to process information efficiently during a sport.

Answer: Experience allows athletes to recognise patterns and cues more quickly, leading to faster decision-making and reactions because they have practiced similar situations repeatedly.