Bi-Lateral Transfer

Bi-lateral Transfer is when a performer has to perform a skill, with the opposite side of the body to that which they are most accustomed to.

For example. Catching in cricket is mainly focused on trying to get two hands to the ball. However someone who is naturally right handed will have better hand eye coordination with his right hand, therefore enabling him to catch easier in his right hand. When a ball is struck to the left of him, he has to use the motor programmes stored for a right handed catch and try to use the weaker limbs of his left hand side to make the catch.

Retroactive Transfer

Retroactive transfer is when learning a new skill causes influence on a previously learnt skill. This is where the adaptations to the new skill feel more kinaesthetically pleasing to the performer and will therefore transfer this way of performing to a previous skill.

For example. Whilst fielding in cricket, when a ball is hit hard towards the learner, they will use soft hands to cushion the impact so as the ball doesn't hurt them. When they then go to play rugby, they will instinctively cushion the impact of the ball as self-consciously they are aware this will not cause pain.

Proactive Transfer

Proactive transfer is when a previously learnt skill influences on the way that a new skill is learned. Compared to positive transfer, this is where habits from a previous skill are transfered to the new skill.

For example. In early childhood, swinging a tennis racket could help increase hand eye coordination and timing the ball perfectly. When it comes to playing a cricket shot, this good hand eye coordination results in the ball being hit at the optimum moment.
It is important to note that although Proactive sounds positive, the habits of the learnt skill could cause bad habits in the new skill.

Negative Transfer

Negative transfer occurs when a skill has been learned that affects the learning of a new skill negatively. Therefore although the skill was successful and useful in the original situation, it now acts as a barrier, preventing efficient learning of the new skill.

For example. Whilst playing a golf shot, the legs are needed to be kept still with an upright steady back. When playing a cricket shot however, the batsman wants to be light on his feet so as he can move and adjust to the pitch of the ball. If the learner has become too accustomed to playing golf with no feet movement, it may be difficult for them to move and play an effective cricket stroke.

Positive Transfer

Positive transfer is where one previously learnt skill, helps the learning and performance of a new one. The skills themselves may be very different, however the muscles, joints and movements used may be beneficial to learning the skill.

For example, learning to do a cartwheel in gymnastics will help bowling in cricket. Although the skills are very different the horizontal flexion of the spine and movement of the arms are quite similar.