The use of mechanical devices and unusual techniques in physical education as supplementary teaching aids

Citation preview

THE. USE OF MECHANICAL DEVICES AND UNUSUAL TECHNIQUES IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AS SUPPLEMENTARY TEACHING AIDS

A Project Presented to the Faculty of the School of Education The University of Southern California

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Science in Education

*>y Robert Christian Ellsworth June 1950

UMI Number: EP45813

All rights reserved INFORMATION TO ALL USERS The quality of this reproduction is dependent upon the quality of the copy submitted. In the unlikely event that the author did not send a complete manuscript and there are missing pages, these will be noted. Also, if material had to be removed, a note will indicate the deletion.

UMI Dissertation Publishing

UMI EP45813 Published by ProQuest LLC (2014). Copyright in the Dissertation held by the Author. Microform Edition © ProQuest LLC. All rights reserved. This work is protected against unauthorized copying under Title 17, United States Code

ProQuest ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway P.O. Box 1346 Ann Arbor, Ml 48106-1346

£. k

'$~C> £

This project report, written under the direction of the candidate’s adviser and approved by him , has been presented to and accepted by the Faculty of the School of Education in p a rtia l fulfillm e n t of the requirements fo r the degree of M a s te r of Science in Education.

Date.

A y f./? sv Adviser

Dean

TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER I.

PAGE

INTRODUCTION.............................. The problem . . .

......................

1

Statement of the p r o b l e m ..............

1

Purpose of the s t u d y ..................

1

Importance of the s t u d y ................

2

Related studies ........................

3

Weaknesses and limitations

............

4

....................

4

Method of procedure

Organization of remaining chapters II.

1

....

5

FALL ACTIVITIES............................

6

Football

................................

6

Rawling-Oakes Line Charging Machine . . .

6

Mattress blocking device

. ............

8

Running Boxes ..........................

15

....................

15

Open field running a i d s ................

16

Running r o p e s .............

17

Drivebaok...........

17

T a c k l e b a c k ............................

18

Fight b a c k ..............................

19

Blockback..............................

20

Bowling..................................

21

Bowling alley practice device ..........

21

Summary..................................

22

Charging holdback

iv

CHAPTER III.

PAGE

WINTER A C T I V I T I E S ........................

23

B a s k e t b a l l ..............................

23

............

23

B o x i n g ..................................

25

Rotating punching bag ..................

25

Basketball practice device

F e n c i n g ................................. Fencing device

26

........................

26

G y m n a s t i c s ..............................

27

The overhead safety b e l t ..............

27

Hand safety belt

28

....................

Practice parallel bars

..............

Ping p o n g ............................. Practice backboard

.

....................

S k i i n g ................................. Snowless skiing device

31 31 32

................

32

S w i m m i n g ................................

33

Swimming b u o y .........................

33

Summary IV.

29

................................

33

SPRING ACTIVITIES..........................

34

Baseball

.....................

34

Baseball sliding r o p e ..................

34

Baseball sliding technique

............

36

Baseball batting t e e ..................

37

Precision bunting device

38

..............

V

CHAPTER

PAGE Device to develop batting power ........

39

The pitching t a r g e t ....................

40

Multiple baseball batting cage

. . ♦ . .

40

* ................... . .

44

Batting cage

G o l f .................................... Indoor driving range

44

..................

44

Plastic ball for golf p r a c t i c e ........

46

Straight away golf s w i n g .............

47

The Swing Rite golf machine •

........

47

Golf swing direction indicator

........

48

Tennis

. • ..................

49

The Tom Stow Tennis Teaching System

V.

and Stroke D e v e l o p e r ................

49

Summary..................................

50

UNUSUAL T E C H N I Q U E S ........................

51

B a s e b a l l ................................

51

The baseball check list

.

B a s k e t b a l l .............................. Basketball Jump exercise

51 53

............

53

G o l f ....................................

54

Golf grip g l o v e ........................

54

T e n n i s ...................

54

Tennis backboards......................

54

T r a c k ....................................

55

Vi CHAPTER

PAGE The Ben Ogden starting g a t e ............

55

Dunning Animatie P r o j e c t o r ............

56

Volley h a l l ..............................

57

Volley ball t e c h n i q u e s ............... . Summary............................. VI.

. .

57 58

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS....................

59

Summary..................................

59

Conclusions..............................

60

A P PEND I X........................................

61

LIST OP PHOTOGRAPHS PHOTOGRAPH No. 1

PAGE

The Blow to the Left and Step to the R i g h t .................................

No* 2

9

The Blow to the Right and Step to the L e f t ..................................

10

No. 3

Shoulder Charge and Slide Through........

11

No. 4

Upright Position for Cracking Charge

...

12

No. 5

Forearm Shiver Preliminary to Lateral Line P l a y ..............................

13

No. 6

Forearm Shiver to Maintain Defensive P o s i t i o n ..............................

14

LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1.

PAGE

Basketball Device Used to Develop Basket Shooting Skills

..........................

2*

Practice Parallel Bars

3*

Baseball Sliding Rope

24

...................

30

.................

35

4*

Baseball Pitching PracticeT a r g e t ..........

41

5*

Multiple Baseball Batting C a g e .............

42

6*

Baseball Batting C a g e .....................

45

•

CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION Many mechanical devices, techniques and unusual teaching aids have appeared throughout the years to facilitate the art of learning in the field of physical education.

A large number of them have been commer­

cialized and have attracted the notice of Instructors and the general public.

However, many techniques have

not been commercialized or received publicity.

The

objective of this study was to discover and report as many of the newer techniques and mechanical teaching devices as possible. I.

THE PROBLEM

Statement of the problem.

A questionnaire,

requesting information pertaining to teaching devices and unusual techniques employed In their schools, was mailed to over one hundred instructors in the field of physical education.

A sampling of the instructors at

various colleges and universities throughout the United States also was made. Purpose of the study.

It was the purpose of this

study to report mechanical devices and unusual teaching

2 techniques employed by successful coaches and instructors in physical education.

It was believed that other

instructors would find value in the recording of these devices and techniques and utilize them in their own teaching situations. Importance of the study.

Whether in the teaching of

physical education classes, or in the coaching of ‘varsity teams during the season1s competition, there seems to be a need for quicker, more efficient methods of teaching the more complicated motor activities.

Many coaches believe

that a participant must practice until he has mastered the "feel* of the activity, and continued practice is a must if the so-called "feel* is to be retained. Many coaches recommend the use of mechanical devices to artificially create a ‘‘feel’1 pattern.

Some athletes

learn quickly and successfully by merely imitating the instructor or an expert performer in the field.

Unfortu­

nately, the average boy is unable to interpret the application of complicated motor patterns quickly and accurately from mere observation, or oral instruction, within the span of normal class periods. However conscientious an athlete may be, it seems that many practice hours are not spent as advantageously as they might be.

The individual attempts to perfect

3 unorthodox motor patterns into an activity situation, which in all probability will lead to mediocre performance. The classic example is the businessman golfer*

For

years he has been hitting the ball with a swing which he feels to be a perfect replica of the fabulous "Bobby■ Jones.

In such an example he remains, after years of

playing once a week, with perhaps an occasional &our of practice, a "duffer*w After a particularly disgusting round of one-hundred-and-two strokes, he decides to engage the local professional for golf instruction.

The latter

will not only have to teach this individual the correct golf swing, but will be confronted with the disadvantage of freeing him of bad habits acquired over the years. The above example is used to show the necessity of correct and adequate instruction for school age youngsters. Through the application of mechanical devices in teaching motor skills, it is possible for a teacher of physical education to reach more of his students and give more accurate instruction.

Many devices and techniques can

be employed by the participant at home, which will help to bring correct performance without an instructor being present. Related studies.

A thorough survey of the literature

revealed no other works related to this study.

k Weaknesses and limitations.

The limited number of

books available and their minimal discussion on this subject made it impractical to use the method of library research. It was impossible, because of limited time and finances, to completely cover all sources of information pertaining to this study.

Coaches and teachers on the

college level were invited to participate.

Many devices,

not uncovered, are most likely being employed by individual coaches throughout the country.

Perhaps high school

coaches would have as much or more information to submit. II.

METHOD OF PROCEDURE

An extensive research of library material was carried on to obtain source material for such things as form, structure and method of procedure.

This investigation of

library material revealed no information pertaining to the context of the study.

The replies to questionnaires sent

to over one hundred college coaches and athletic instructors, provided the bulk of the information ultimately used. Another procedure for obtaining information was the interview method.

Professional coaches and athletes were

Interviewed and requested to submit suggestions pertaining to the project.

5 III.

THE ORGANIZATION OF THE REMAINDER OF THE STUDY

The following three chapters are devoted to fall, winter, and spring sports or activities, respectively. Mechanical teaching devices for a specific activity are pre­ sented in that chapter which pertains to the season in which that activity is usually performed. Chapter V explains unusual techniques that may or may not involve mechanical aids. Chapter VI contains a summary and conclusions arrived at as a result of this study.

CHAPTER II FALL ACTIVITIES It is the purpose of this chapter to record the findings obtained from the questionnaires and interviews which pertain to athletic activities engaged in during the Fall of the year.

Some practical mechanical teaching aids

will be offered which may assist the instructor in teaching motor skills required of these activities. I.

FOOTBALL

It&WLING-OAKES LINE CHARPING- MACHINES; Description.

This machine was conceived for in­

struction and development of defensive fundamentals of line play.

Each post of the machine represents an offensive

lineman; the two side posts and bumpers represent the shoulder or side of a charging offensive lineman, and the center part with protruding, padded springs represents the head of a charging offensive lineman.

Defensive players,

working against the machine, experience powerful reactions, *

similar to playing against live, offensive players. Use of device.

The manufacturers of the line charging

machine claim the following to be the objectives, or specific

7 values of this device: 1. Practice on this machine will develop the correct form and actions of various defensive funda­ mentals before putting players against live competition; 2. The coaching of and making corrections to these fundamentals are simplified and effective as the player*s actions can be watched throughout, without the live player interfering with the actions of the player or the view of the coach; 3. Defensive linemen can be taught to use either hand, or both hands, and to either side in charging or defense; 4. Defensive linemen are taught to charge as they strike with the hands, conforming to a new rule interpretation on defensive line play; 5. Develops a quick, hard charge; 6. Develops a low charge, as the machine is built low and player must learn to execute his actions in a low position; 7* Save the coach* s time and the players learn faster; 8. Reduces chances of injury; 9* Makes it possible to handle team in small space.

8 The following pictures will help to explain the teaching technique of the Rawling-Oakes line charging device. Manufacturer ♦

The line charging machine is manu­

factured by the Rawling Manufacturing Company, 717 Market Street, San Francisco, California. Home construction.

This machine is patented and not

subject to home construction. MATTRESS BLOCKING DEVICE: Description.

Many coaches recommend the aid of a

mattress for teaching the skill of open field blocking. One player, or assistant, holds the mattress in front of his body when a player charges, and executes a down-field block into the mattress. Use of device. suggested.

A three-quarter bed mattress is

The mattress is folded in the center and held

by extended arms; as contact is made, the arms draw back, absorbing part of the shock. Manufacturer.

Not commonly manufactured for this

purpose. Home construction. outlined.

Can be constructed as above

9

THE BLOW TO THE LEFT AND STEP TO THE RIGHT

10

THE BLOW TO THE RIGHT AND STEP TO THE LEFT

11

SHOULDER CHARGE AND SLIDE THROUGH

12

L'HOOlV V fS?

UPRIGHT POSITION FOR CRACKING CHARGE

13

LtNonL't>-V r+ #

FOREARM SHIVER PRELIMINARY TO LATERAL LINE PLAY

14

L it t o n t * •

Photograph No. 6 FOREARM SHIVER TO MAINTAIN DEFENSIVE POSITION

v> ~

15 RUNNING- BOXES: Descriptlon.

Four boxes (open at top and bottom)

are placed side by side.

Players are requested to run into

and out of the series of boxes. Use of device.

They were designed to help develop

the skill of running with knees high and to develop explosive power. Manufaoturer.

Information as to manufacturer is

unavailable. Home construction.

Description is self-explanatory.

CHARGING- HOLDBACK: Description.

This device consists of two leather

straps, about twelve feet long.

They are secured in a

parallel position by a round sturdy rod at either end. Two more straps, 20 inches apart, are fastened in a perpendicular position, each ten Inches from the center. This constitutes a 20-inch square directly in the center of the two 12-inch straps. Use of device.

A boy at either end holds the rod

three feet from the ground.

A backfield man drives into

the device, charging his head through the opening, and

16 continues to charge with his shoulders and legs while the two boys who are holding the rod attempt to restrain him, Manufao turer. No information. Home construction.

Above is self-explanatory.

OPEN FIELD RUNNING- AIDS: Description.

The device can be acquired inexpen­

sively by purchasing secondhand or discarded automobile tires. Use of device.

Place ten to fifty tires on the

ground in scattered order, about one yard apart, on the practice field.

The tires should be placed in a zig-zag

arrangement, representing open field running.

Stagger the

arrangement to afford hip movement, change of pace, and deception.

Two of the tires placed one on the other will

serve the purpose of running boxes to develop runners with a high knee raise. Manufacturer.

Not manufactured commercially for

this purpose. Home construction. tires.

Any old, or discarded, automobile

17 RUNNING ROPES: Description,

Running ropes offer a fine procedure

of physical conditioning, plus an excellent technique for teaching boys to run with the knees high.

When set up for

use, the device looks like a series of adjoining rope ladders, suspended about 15 Inches above the ground. Use of device.

The inventor claims that the running

ropes produce the same results as the traditional running boxes but eliminate the barked shins.

The running ropes

were designed to teach change of pace, deception, direction, and to stretch the leg muscles. Manufacturer.

Not manufactured commercially.

Home construction.

No suggestions offered.

DRIVEBACK: Description.

This device is conceived for the

development of football charging strength, both for backfield and linemen.

The driveback comes in two models.

The “Torpedo” Driveback is a charging sled, shaped like a torpedo, all steel, streamlined, and lightweight for lightning speed.

The old fashioned, heavy sleds had a

tendency to knot the leg muscles, and for this reason the

18 lightweight model has been designed. the shook of the oncoming blockers.

Spring steel absorbs This model can be

built into a four-man sled by adding runners. The other model driveback, called the wScootern Driveback, is of the same design as the "Torpedo?1but made of wood and steel and is lighter in construction. Use of device.

The driveback was designed to

facilitate the teaching and learning of charging and blocking fundamentals for both backfleld and linemen in the game of football. Manufacturer.

Marty G-llman, Incorporated, Gilman,

Connecticut, is the manufacturer of the above mentioned device. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction. TACKLEBACK: Description.

Tackleback, according to the manu­

facturer, develops the correct approach, initial contact, the "kill* in tackling, and the force necessary in knocking the runner off his feet.

This device eliminates the man­

shaped tackling dummy and tackling pit, allowing practice to be conducted on any part of the field.

19 The cylinder dummy is filled with hair, and a specially designed pocket facilitates the removal of the dummy after the practice.

The device is mounted on steel

runners, which are towed in, providing resistance to hardrunning ball carriers. Use of device.

The device was conceived to

facilitate the teaching and learning of a football skill tackling. Manufacturer.

Marty Gilman, Incorporated, of Gilman,

Connecticut, is the manufacturer. Home construction.

Duplication of the tackleback,

a patented device, is not suggested for home construction. FIGHTBACK: Description.

The fightback was designed by the

manufacturer to provide an inexpensive blocking armor, built to give protection from chest to ankles.

The fight-

back is worn by a player and the equipment resembles that worn by the goalie on a hockey team.

The armor provides

for loose action for live blocking on moving human defence targets without the danger of practice bruises, especially to the blocker.

Use of device.

The fighthack I s a protective suit

worn while practicing blocking and tackling. Manufacturer.

The fightback is manufactured by-

Marty Gilman, Incorporated, of Gilman, Connecticut. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction. BLOCKBACK: Description,

The blockback is a device manufactured

to facilitate the teaching of football blocking funda­ mentals.

It Is 28 x 20 x 10 inches In size, is filled

with either cotton or hair and weighs about 15 pounds. The blockback is a protective device employed by one player as another charges into him and throws a block. This device affords protection from head to knees and little or no injuries have been reported from blocking practices using it.

Handles are fastened to the inside,

which enables a player to hold the blockback in any desired position. Use of device.

This device Is used in the teaching

and learning of football blocking techniques. Manufac turer.

The blockback is made by Marty Gilman

21

Incorporated, Gilman, Connecticut. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction. II.

BOWLING

BOWLING ALLEY PRACTICE DEVICE: Description.

A miniature howling alley is utilized

for teaching beginners the fundamental bowling skills. The alley is six feet long but regulation in all other respects.

A ten foot approach provides sufficient runway

to the foul line.

An electric eye on the foul lines rings

a bell if the student steps over the line when releasing the ball. Bowling pins are not used on the miniature bowling alley.

The device does not attempt to teach pin-point

accuracy by this method.

The accuracy to knock down strikes

or spaces must be acquired on regulation length bowling alleys.

A white guide line is painted down the center of

the alley.

The student uses this line as a guide to acquire

general direction and balance.

An automatic ball return

ejects the ball from the pit to the student on a return rail. Use of device.

The device is very much in demand by

efficient players wishing to correct their delivery, and

also as a warm-up practice preceding a game*

The manu­

facturer claims that many players, who could not afford the time and money to actually bowl the necessary games to become efficient, have fallen into that category by practicing, and eventually learning, on his Practice Bowling Alley, Manufacturer, is the manufacturer.

Edward Tadavich, of Chicago, Illinois The Practice Bowling Alley is not

commercially manufactured. Home construction.

No information is available as

to home construction. III.

SUMMARY

In this chapter mechanical devices used as teaching aids in football and bowling were described.

CHAPTER III WINTER ACTIVITIES It Is the purpose of this chapter to record the findings of the study which relate to athletic activities generally participated In during the winter months.

Some

practical mechanical teaching aids will be offered which may assist the instructor in teaching motor skills required of these activities. I.

BASKETBALL

BASKETBALL PRACTICE DEVICE: Description.

This is a practice device used to

enable a boy to shoot more accurately under game conditions, as illustrated In Figure 1. Use of device.

It was conceived primarily for grade

and high school levels.

It should enable a boy playing

basketball to shoot more accurately under game conditions and to make him realize the value of the use of the hands and arms in defense.

It also should make practice time

more efficient and inject a competitive or gamelike condition to the practice.

The manufacturer believes

that it will also have value as a recreation device for

Figure 1 BASKETBALL DEVICE USED TO DEVELOP BASKET SHOOTING SKILLS

25 after-school or home use for individual boys, and at the same time develop those skills necessary for success in the above mentioned game. Manufac turer. Rex V. Darling, Assistant Professor of Physical Education, Eastern Illinois State College, devised this device.

It is not manufactured commercially

at the present time. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction. II.

BOXING

ROTATING PUNCHING BAG: Description.

Eddie Adams, Director of Athletics at

Tournier Institute of Technology, Lemont, Illinois, has invented an apparatus for boxing. Use of device.

A punching bag is suspended on the

cross-arm, with the connection safely padded with sponge rubber.

The arm makes a revolution in approximately a

second.

The advantage is that practice is afforded in

hitting a moving target.

Other useful drills, such as

ducking, bobbing, and weaving may be practiced. height is adjustable.

The arm

26

Manufacturer.

No information was obtained as to who

manufactures this device. Home construction. III.

No suggestions offered. FENCING

FENCING DEVICE: Description.

This device, for teaching fencing,

consists of a full length mirror drilled to hold a movie tilt top, arm and foil, at a distance from the floor equal to the distance of the average fencer*s arm and weapon from the floor.

The tilt top can be swung up and down, or from

right to left, to simulate the various positions known as “lines of engagement" which a fencer may assume. Into the end of the arm, which is made of wood or preferably of light metal, is fastened a camera pan-head (ball and socket joint), which can be set at any angle to completely Imitate the arm and wrist position of a fencer. Upon this pan-head is secured a deflection spring, into the other end of which is secured the foil blade with its bell guard.

The spring serves to allow the blade to be deflected

out of position by the oncoming blade of the person practicing fencing.

A small area around the tilt top

base has a rubber pad to protect the mirror.

27 Use of device.

This device is highly recommended

inasmuch as it inculcates the most important of all ideas wto touch and not be touched while attacking.M

It teaches

the boy to make the attack with the defence so set that he himself can not be touched while making the attack, Manufacturer.

This device is not commercially manu­

factured* Home construction.

Details on home construction may

be obtained from an article by William T. Strobel In the Athletic Journal, published in March, 19^9 • IV.

GYMNASTICS

THE OVERHEAD SAFETY BELT: Description* safety belt.

This device is used even more than the

It is arranged by securing the belt to ropes,

which are attached to pulleys fastened to the ceiling or crossbeams of the gymnasium. Use of device*

The belt can be used to aid the

teaching of floor work, diving, and trampaline.

It not

only aids in the teaching, but Is definitely a protection against injuries. A complete description, with pictures and application

28 of this teaching device, is presented in an article written by Newton C. Token, Gymnastic Coach, University of Michigan, which appears in the Athletic Journal, issue of December,

19^9. Manufacturer. Manufacturer^ name and address are unknown to the investigator.

A similar device, known as

the Pond Twisting Belt is manufactured in Urbana, Illinois. Information is available by writing to P. 0. Box 182, Urbana, Illinois. Home construction. knowledge of construction.

The device requires technical Home construction is not

recommended. THE HAND SAFETY BELT: Description.

This device consists of a leather belt

which buckles securely around the waist.

A four-foot rope

is secured to the belt on a swivel attachment.

A spotter

on each side holds the rope and supports the performer. Use of device.

Newton C. Token, Gymnastic Coach,

University of Michigan, claims that the hand safety belt is an indispensable piece of equipment for teaching gymnastics.

It can be used for elementary procedures

up and through the more complicated feats, such as twisting

29 flips, front double somersaults, etc.

It may also be used

effectively from the sporting platform of the trampaline. Manufacturer,

The hand safety belt is made by a

concern in Urbana, Illinois.

Complete Information Is

available by writing to P. 0. Box 182, Urbana, Illinois. Home construction,

A strong leather belt, that can

be buckled around a participant, will serve the general purpose; tie two four-foot ropes to each side of the belt. PRACTICE PARALLEL BARS: Description.

A practice device for activities to be

learned is found by having regulation parallel bars secured to cross-bars forming a base about three inches off the floor.

It is not secured to the floor, and may be used

where most convenient. Use of device.

See Illustration, Figure 2. Mr. Joseph Krlpner, of Chicago

Teachers College, uses the above device in teaching beginners on the parallel bars. Manufac turer. Manufacturer is unknown. Home construction.

Can be made in the school wood

shop by following directions of diagram and description.

30

Figure 2 PRACTICE PARALLEL BARS

31 V.

PING PONG

PRACTICE BACKBOARD: Description,

Mr. Joseph Kripner, Physical Educa­

tion Instructor, Teachers College, Chicago, Illinois, advocates the installation of a plywood backboard to facilitate the teaching and learning of ping pong fundamentals. This backboard, twenty-four inches high, running the width of a ping pong table, is placed in the center of the table and held in a perpendicular position by four braces,

A net line is drawn to indicate the height of a

net; a second line is drawn ten inches above the net line. A ball hit at the backboard, and striking below the net line, Indicates the ball was too low; a ball above the second line indicates the shot would be too long. Use of device.

This device enables a player to

practice alone and at his convenience.

It was designed

specifically to afford the practice of the serve, the back­ hand, the forehand, the driving shots and the footwork.

A

player may set up for himself almost any shot at which he is particularly weak. Manufacturer. manufactured.

This device is not commercially

32 Home construction*

The ping pong backboard can be

easily constructed in the home or school wood shop by inter­ preting the description. VI.

SKIING

SNOWLESS SKIING DEVICE: Description.

Mr. Steven M. Rostas, of Amherst

College, Amherst, Massachusetts, has developed a unique device for the teaching of skiing without snow.

A frame

similar to a boy1s scooter describes the mechanism.

Two

wheels, about six inches in diameter, are built into a twenty-inch, foot platform.

The device looks like a ski

on wheels but is considerably shorter.

The feet are secured

to the platforms by regulation ski straps or locks. Use of device.

Mr. Eostas employs this technique

when snow is not on the ground to teach the fundamentals of skiing. Manufacturer.

The machine is patented, but as of

this writing is not manufactured for commercial use. Mr. Hostas intends to have it on the market in the near future. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction.

33 VII,

swimming-

SWIMMING- BUOY: Description.

The swimming buoy is a device that has

proved to be a great aid in teaching beginning swimmers. It was introduced by the Ocean Pool Supply Company, who called it the “Swim Buoy.M

It is an inflatable flutter

board, made of rubber, which is invaluable when practicing or teaching the leg kick or arm strokes. Use of device.

When using the buoy for practicing

kicking, it is held in the hands.

When practicing arm

strokes, it is secured in the lower part of the legs, thus keeping the body in a normal position for swimming. Wooden and aluminum float boards are also manu­ factured and serve practically the same purpose as the “Swim Buoy.u Manufacturer.

Ocean Pool Supply Company, Hollywood,

California. Home construction.

Not practical for home made

construction. VIII.

SUMMARY

In this chapter mechanical devices used as teaching aids in basketball, boxing, fencing, gymnastics, ping pong, skiing, and swimming are recorded.

CHAPTER IV SPRING ACTIVITIES It Is the purpose of this chapter to record the findings of the study which relate to athletic activities generally participated in during the Spring of the year. Some practical mechanical teaching aids will be offered which may assist the instructor in teaching motor skills required of these activities. I.

BASEBALL

BASEBALL SLIDING ROPE: Description.

Mr. Steve Harrick, Baseball Coach,

West Virginia University, uses a climbing rope as a device for teaching the technique of the bent leg and up type of a baseball slide.

See Illustration, Figure 3*

Use of device.

Have the subject sit on the floor at

point A, and grasp the rope with both hands above shoulder height.

Stand up and back away with the rope until the

rope and the hands are above the head at point B.

From

point B swing forward on the rope, with right leg bent at right angle to the left leg, which is straight and locked at the knee, and slide on the floor through point A on the

35

Rope Suspended From Celling

\

C /

B

(gym floor)

Figure 3 BASEBALL SLIDING ROPE

floor.

After sliding through the point A, the subject

plants his left foot on the floor and, with the aid of the rope, he comes up to his feet in running position at point near C. Once the technique of this type of slide is under­ stood with the aid of a rope, the subject can learn the mechanics of sliding much more quickly and safely in the sliding pit on his own momentum. Manufacturer.

Not commercially manufactured.

Home construction.

Description is self-explanatory.

BASEBALL SLIDING TECHNIQUE; Description.

Mr. Elmer Berry, Athletic Instructor,

University of Oregon, suggests the following technique for teaching baseball sliding skills Indoors.

His technique

consists of sliding on the gym floor, using sliding pads under regulation football pants. ones, are removed.

Shoes, especially rubber

Woolen socks are recommended.

Use of device.

To slide behind second base, subject

walks toward the bag, extends left foot at inside of bag, sits down on right thigh and buttocks, leans backward, with right foot forward and upward.

When pattern is firmly

entrenched in participants mind, speed of approach is

37 gradually Increased until sliding is mastered at full speed. Sliding form can be taught by this procedure before outside practice begins. Manufacturer.

Is not a commercial product.

Home construction.

Can be made as described above.

BASEBALL BATTING- TEE: Description.

The baseball batting tee consists of

an adjustable tube attached to a flat base, which holds the tube in a vertical position.

The tube is adjustable to

allow proper position of the ball in relation to the height of a strike zone.

The end of the tube, which extends into

the strike area, is made of rubber and the tip forms a base on which to set the ball. Use of device.

Representatives of the Voit Rubber

Company claim the batting tee enables a participant to develop batting form, footwork, muscle coordination, and confidence.

Literature by the Voit Rubber Company stresses

the ability of the coach to teach a player the horizontal swing, and how to keep the eyes on the ball by use of this device. Manufacturer.

Voit Rubber Company.

38 Home construction*

Mr. Tom Griffiths, of Hermosa

Beach, California, suggests a simple formula for home construction of a hatting tee.

The material which is

needed consists of twelve pieces of garden hose, plus a home type toilet plunger.

The rubber suction cup is

placed on the floor or ground, and a length of garden hose is inserted over the handle. on the end of the hose.

The baseball will rest

Each of the twelve pieces of

garden hose should be of various lengths to allow for high and low areas of the strike zone, plus individual differences in the height of the participants. PRECISION BUNTING DEVICE: Description.

Eddie Sawyer, manager of the Phila­

delphia Phillies, advocates the use of a six-foot circle to teach precision bunting.

The circle is painted with

lime at a strategic position just to the right and about fifteen feet in front of the pitcher* s mound. Use of device.

During bunting practice the players

attempt to place the ball within the circle.

A ball so

placed affords the greatest possibility of a base hit. Manufacturer.

Not commercially manufactured.

Home construction.

See description for details.

39 DEVICE TO DEVELOP BATTING- POWER: Description, ball,

Bore a hole through a regulation base­

Place a strong cord through the ball and hang it

from the ceiling or overhead.

Suspend a mat in such a

position as to contact the ball about six to twelve feet from the perpendicular or plumb line. Use of device.

Players may practice batting the ball

in a stationary position, or while the ball is in motion. The rope holding the ball should be adjustable so as to allow for manipulation up or down within the strike area. The student practicing may move the plate away or toward the ball to provide inside or outside pitches. Mr. Elmer Berry, University of Oregon, believes this technique to be of great value in teaching proper batting form and stance, and that it affords a fine opportunity for teaching the batter to keep his eye on the ball.

He also

believes that the average athlete is limited in batting muscles.

This technique was found to be of great assistance

in developing the muscles used in batting. Manufacturer.

No information is available regarding

commercial production. Home construction. paragraph.

Can be made as described in first

40 THE PITCHING- TARGET: Description*

Submitted by J. W. Heldman, Jr., and

used by Branch Rickey of the Brooklyn Dodgers.

See

illustration in Figure 4. Use of device.

The pitching target is practical for

outdoor or indoor practice.

Mr. Heldman suggests stationing

a catcher behind the target.

Its value consists in develop­

ing pitching control. Manufacturer. Manufacturer Is unknown. Home construction.

(1) Two high jump or volley ball

standards, (2) home plate, (3) one piece of canvas 17 9 x 30% (4) double thickness of 2" adhesive tape, which overlaps the canvas and secures canvas to ropes. MULTIPLE BASEBALL BATTING CAGE: Description.

The multiple batting cage was submitted

by Elmer Berry, University of Oregon.

Three (or six, if

desired) white fish nets, supported and held in position by steel rods, form the structure of the batting cage. See illustration, Figure 5» page 42. Use of device.

The multiple batting cage concen­

trates a large amount of batting practice in one corner of

Figure ^ BASEBALL PITCHING- PRACTICE TARGET

Figure 5 MULTIPLE BASEBALL BATTING CAGE

43 the field.

Seven men can he kept busy per cage:

fielders, three batters, a catcher and a pitcher.

two The

two batters waiting their turn should help return balls to the pitcher.

One player should be stationed behind the

catcher, the other behind the pitcher. Outside nets (see dotted lines) can be used if desired —

a net covering the top is highly desirable.

This arrangement protects the pitcher, speeds return of balls to the pitcher, and encourages batters to hit straight away.

Batted balls, traveling in a direction other than

directly at the pitcher, will strike the net.

The batter

has a natural desire to see the ball travel and will con­ centrate on line drives which, in a game, would travel over second base. This device affords a coach to observe many partici­ pants in a short interval of time.

He may walk behind the

cage, giving directions and instruction with the advantage of observing other batters between pitches. Manufacturer.

Not commercially manufactured.

Home construction.

This device can be constructed

at home by following dimensions and illustration in de­ scription and drawing.

44 BASEBALL BATTING- CAGE: Description.

A batting cage was designed and con­

structed by J. W. Heldman, Jr., Director of Physical Education, University of Louisville (Ky.), at a cost of from four to six dollars. Use of device.

See illustration, Figure 6.

The batting cage is used to facili­

tate batting practice, essentially to keep foul balls from leaving the playing area. Manufacturer.

Not known if commercially manufactured.

Home construction.

(1) Four secondhand wheels, tires,

and tubes, (2) secondhand piping and tubing for assembly, (3) steering device from old car, (4-) size of frame: 25 feet deep, 18 feet wide, 12 feet high . II.

GOLF

INDOOR DRIVING RANGES: Description.

The Kunkle Indoor Driving Range is

constructed of aluminum tubing.

The ball is prevented from

escaping by fish-net which encloses the frame.

The range is

twenty-four feet deep, twelve feet high, and eight feet wide. The frame is collapsible and may be stored or assembled with very little difficulty.

0 Figure 6 BASEBALL BATTING CAGE

46 Use of device.

Instructors find it practical for

teaching when outdoors facilities are not available. Private clubs employ this device for the benefit of members wishing to practice their swing during the winter, or on days they cannot play.

Private individuals

purchase the driving range for practice in their back yards. Manufacturer.

Manufactured by Kunkle Industries,

Chicago, Illinois. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction. PLASTIC BALL FOR GOLF PRACTICE: Description. A golf practice ball is now on the market, which indicates the apparent efficiency of a golf swing (or stroke).

The ball is hollow, constructed of

durable plastic, with round holes which are scientifically cut into the ball, a quarter of an inch apart. Use of device.

When hit by a golf club, the ball

will travel about forty feet.

A defective, or true, swing

will be evident by the flight of the ball. Manufacturer.

Manufacturer unknown; the balls may be

purchased at most sporting goods1 stores.

Home construction*

Not practical for home con­

struction. STRAIGHT AWAY GOLF SWING: Description.

Tom Wagner, Professional at Bunker

Hill Country Club, Chicago, Illinois, advocates the use of a 3M x 20* strip of adhesive tape, straight hoard or line marker, to aid a golfer in developing the proper golf swing. Use of device.

By using a straight line, and swing­

ing the club within an inch of it, the golfer can determine the direction of the club head on the downstroke.

This

technique is used by Mr. Wagner to teach the inside out stroke, or "straight away" follow through. Manufacturer.

Not commercially manufactured.

Home construction.

Construction explained in

description. THE SWING RITE GOLF MACHINE: Description.

The *Swing Rite" device is a mechanical

gadget for teaching the complete golf swing.

The device

consists of a hip form suspended waist high on a steel rod, which is secured to a wooden platform.

The player straps

48 himself to the form,

As the player swings a golf club from

this position, he is held in place and forced to execute many of the desired techniques of accepted form consti­ tuting a good golf swing. Use of device.

The device was constructed to teach

by MfeelH in conjunction with the theoretical explanation of a golf swing. Manufacturer.

"Swing Rite" is manufactured by Frank

Johnston, 1250 Harvard Avenue, Claremont, California. Home construction.

The device is patented and is

not suggested for home construction. GOLF SWING- DIRECTION INDICATOR: Description.

Mr. Tom Griffiths, of Hermosa Beach,

California, recommends the use of two golf ball tees to ascertain the direction of a golf swing. Use of device.

Place two golf ball tees in the

ground approximately six inches apart, in a straight line. Address the first tee and determine the approximate flight of a ball to follow the line of the tees. the first tee.

Address and hit

If your club head is operating on the

accepted inside out the club head will strike both pattern tees.

49 Mr* Griffiths believes that continued practice of this nature will greatly increase control of the ball, prevent the wrists from rolling too soon, and develop a good pivot. Manufacturer *

Not manufactured as a teaching unit.

Home construction. III.

This is self-explanatory. TENNIS

THE TOM STOW TENNIS TEACHING SYSTEM AND STROKE DEVELOPER: Description.

The system consists of three units:

(1) The stroke developer, (2) the instruction book, (3) footmat. The stroke developer is a device which Tom Stow contends makes the teaching of tennis an exact science, allows the pupil to practice in the same way that the boxer uses a punching bag, or the football player uses the tackling dummy. balls —

The device consists of two adjustable

one on a cloth-covered rubber cord for practicing

and teaching ground strokes; the other is attached to a strong cord for teaching the service and smash. The instruction book is completely illustrated, with eighty-three pictures and diagrams, provides an exact method and use of the above mentioned devices for teaching classes

50 as well as individuals. A footmat is a rubber mat, with footprints which show the footwork for the approach to the ball for both forehand and backhand shots, makes the teaching of footwork simple and exact.

It attempts to show the correct position

of the ball in relation to the body. Use of device.

The Tom Stow Tennis Teaching System,

according to the inventor, was devised to aid in the teach­ ing of all fundamental tennis skills. Manufacturer.

Information pertaining to the Tom

Stow Tennis Teaching System was supplied by Tom Stow, No. 1 Tunnel Hoad, Berkeley, California, who is the inventor and manufacturer. Home construction.

This patented system is not

suggested for home construction. IV.

SUMMARY

In this chapter mechanical devices used as teaching aids In baseball, golf and tennis were recorded.

CHAPTER V UNUSUAL TECHNIQUES It is the purpose of this chapter to record unusual teaching techniques uncovered by this study.

Some of the

following techniques involve mechanical devices and apparatus, others do not.

No attempt has been made to

classify the techniques with seasonal activities. I.

BASEBALL

THE BASEBALL CHECK LIST: Description.

Mr. LeRoy A. Harper, Instructor of

Physical Education, Columbia University, pointed out that many coaches recommend and use a 11check-off list.*1 The Important aspects of a learning situation, such as funda­ mental skills or desired techniques of game situation, are listed on a sheet of paper.

Below is an example of

a "check-off list" for a shortstop in baseball. CHECK-OFF LIST (Have someone rate you) 1,

Did you watch the ball all the way

Yes

No

( )

( )

( )

( )

into your glove? 2.

Did you always get into a good position to field the ball?

52 Yes

No

3* Did you throw fast and accurately?

( )

()

4. Did you get the ball away quickly?

( )

()

5* Did you get set to make your throws?

( )

()

6. Did you throw to the second baseman

( )

()

7. Did you back up the bases properly?

( )

()

8. Did you go to your right and left

( )

()

( )

()

( )

()

about chest high?

equally well? 9. Did you misjudge high flies? 10. Did you have trouble with line drives? Use of device.

The student may check himself after

a game or practice session, but perhaps the best procedure is to have a participant checked by the instructor, or another student. Manufacturer.

The ncheck-off listH technique was

submitted by Mr. LeRoy A. Harper, who stated that the idea was not original to him and that he could not remember where he had heard about it. Home construction.

The check list plan is applicable

to most any teaching situation.

A coach or instructor may

devise his own outline by listing the ten basic fundamentals or techniques of an activity which he believes to be most

53 important for the proper execution of that ability. II.

BASKETBALL

BASKETBALL JUMP EXERCISE: Description. ability.

This device is to increase jumping

Dr. Elwood C. Davis, Professor of Physical

Education, University of Southern California, recalls coaches employing a series of objects graduated as to height, suspended from above to increase the jumping ability of basketball players. Use of device.

Each object is progressively

farther away from the player1s reach.

A player selects

an object that he believes he can Jump into the air and touch.

He then progresses to the next higher one.

He

practices several minutes each day attempting to increase his jumping ability. Manufacturer.

This technique is not commercially

manufactured. Home construction. under Description.

Can be constructed as explained

54 III.

GOLF

GOLF GRIP GLOVE: Description*

The two-handed golf glove has been

designed to assist the golfer in learning the proper grip. A leather grip fits over the shaft of the club and also holds the thumb, forefinger of the left hand, and the last three fingers of the right hand to the shaft of the club. Use of device.

The glove was designed to assist the

golfer in keeping a firm grip on the club.

Many beginning

golfers find difficulty in keeping the hands on the shaft at the top of the backswing.

This glove is used until the

player learns to control his grip. Manufacturer. Manufacturer -unknown at this time of the study. Home construction. IV.

No information is available. TENNIS

TENNIS BACKBOARDS: Description.

Mr. Graves, Physical Education In­

structor at The University of Southern California, recommends the construction of backboards around the

55 tennis courts to replace the customary wire fence. Use of device.

Mr. Graves believes these backboards

would be invaluable devices to teach and perfect the funda­ mental techniques of tennis performance. Manufacturer.

This device is not commercially

manufac tured. Home construction.

Practically any construction

company would build the wall to individual specifications. V.

TRACK

THE BEN OGDEN STARTING GATE: Description.

This machine is the result of about ten

years of work, taking into consideration all of the factors involved in its inception —

the problems facing the runner,

the coach and the spectators. Use of device.

It takes the "guess workB out of

starting, because there can be no "rolling" or "beating the gun," and every runner gets an equal start.

If he is a fast

starter, the machine will prove it and, if he is a slow starter, it will prove that, too.

All the runner has to

do now is to forget his competitors and concentrate on the gun and GO when the gun goes off.

56 Ben Ogden1s "Starting Gate" has been used in the following meets:

National A A U Indoor Championship,

Madison Square Garden, New York; Knights of Columbus Indoor Invitational Track Meet, Madison Square Garden, New York; Mid-Atlantic Indoor Championship, Camden, New Jersey; and U. S. Marine Track and Field Meet, Quantico, Virginia. The device is also a teaching medium, because the speed with which either or both of the swinging shoulder bows come up, when the runner starts, is an index of the runner's drive off his mark. Manufacturer.

Complete information and price list

can be obtained from Ben Ogden, Morris and Clothier Roads, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. Home construction.

This patented device is not

suggested for home construction. DUNNING ANIMATIC PROJECTOR: Description.

This device is a 16 mm motion picture

projector which is capable of advancing the film one frame at a time at a slow speed and allows any individual frame to be stopped and projected indefinitely.

57 Use of device*

Mr* Elvin 0* Drake, Track Coach at

the University of California has utilized this device to study the form of his track and field men in action by analyzing their form and style with the aid of the slowed up or stopped picture*

He plans to take motion pictures

of the trainees regularly every two weeks and to study their individual progress* Manufacturer.

See Appendix B.

Manufactured by the Dunningcolor

Corporation, 932 N. La Brea Avenue, Hollywood, California. Home construction*

This is a patented device and

is not reoommended for home construction. VI*

VOLLEY BALL

VOLLEY BALL TECHNIQUES: Description*

Mr, H. Hasenberg, Physical Education

Instructor, Nixon School, Chicago, Illinois, recommends the use of wall space and various techniques in teaching volley ball skills.

His procedure is as follows:

form in twos or partners, facing each other*

(1) Have class Instructor

leads the class in mimesis of underhand volley ball serve. One partner extends his arm waist high, partner strikes hand, pretending it is a volley ball.

When foot work and

arm motion have been learned, the class takes turns

58 attempting to hit a target placed on a wall.

(2) Class

takes position, facing the wall; one ball is given to every three players*

Player serves the ball into the wall and

attempts to keep it rebounding from the wall without striking the ground. Use of device*

Another use which Mr. Hasenberg

explains and recommends, is that of placing a volley ball into a cloth bag, the ends of which are tied to a rope and suspended waist high from the ceiling. drawn with chalk on the floor*

Foot patterns are

The player practices the

serve by hitting the suspended ball and stepping into the foot patterns* Manufacturer.

Not commercially manufactured.

Home construction. VII.

Follow explanation of description. SUMMARY

In this chapter unusual techniques used as teaching aids in physical education were recorded.

Activities

participated in throughout the year were discussed*

CHAPTER VI SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS I.

SUMMARY

The purpose of this study was to uncover mechanical devices and unusual techniques used by athletic instructors as teaching aids.

A questionnaire requesting information

pertinent to the study was sent to approximately one hundred athletic instructors.

Those contacted were actively

engaged in teaching Physical Education at leading universi­ ties and colleges.

Inadequate source material and lack of

time and finances limited the scope of the study to those instructors contacted.

An attempt was made to obtain in­

formation from a cross-section of the country by selecting as many schools as possible from each of the forty-eight states. The survey resulted in the report of a number of interesting mechanical devices and techniques used as i

teaching aids.

The seasons of the year were used as a

basis for classifying the activities to which they per­ tained.

Those devices used in teaching or developing motor

skills in activities usually participated in during the fall, winter and spring seasons were recorded respectively. Unusual teaching techniques were recorded, without regard to the season of the year in which the activity is generally performed.

Some techniques involved mechanical

60 devices and apparatus, while others did not. An unusual teaching technique or a mechanical teaching aid has been reported for the majority of athletic activities taught in the American schools. II.

CONCLUSIONS

From the statements made by coaches and instructors answering the questionnaire, the following opinions were expressed:

(1) Mechanical teaching devices speed the

learning time and efficiency of instruction; (2) an instructor is able to devote more time to individual instruction; (3) a student is capable of practicing correct procedures with limited personalized instruction, after having been introduced to the activity by this method; (4) the end results, or goal, and speed of the learning situation is achieved by a greater percentage of partici­ pants at less expenditure of time; (5) great interest was expressed by the persons participating in the study and many requests made for a completed copy. Many of the techniques and devices reported, des­ cribed in application to one particular athletic activity, can, with a little ingenuity and improvisation, readily be adapted to another activity.

APPENDIX

62 APPENDIX A The University of Southern California Department of Physical Education Los Angeles 7* California February 18, 1950 Dear Sir: A nation-wide investigation is being conducted to un­ cover4 devices and unusual techniques employed as teaching aids. Mechanical devices, such as the automatic baseball pitcher, the batting tee, and the automatic tennis ball projedtor are manufactured and, therefore, well-known. However, there must be scores of supplementary wtricks11 and hand-made devices, which never receive publicity. William R. La Porte, Professor of Physical Education, The Uhiversity of Southern California, has suggested that I contact you with regard to asking your cooperation In dis­ covering anything of this nature. The information I secure Is to become a part of the report of the C&rriculum Commit­ tee of the College Physical Association. A short description, or hasty sketch, of any device or unusual technique used or known by you, would be of great assistance and value. Full credit will be given you in the forthcoming project. This project must Enclosed you will find a would greatly appreciate card and return it to me

be completed by April 1, 1950. self-explanatory postcard. I it if you would kindly check this immediately.

Sincerely,

Robert C. Ellsworth Department of Physical Education Graduate Student RCE:ab Encl-2

63 APPENDIX A (continued)

COPY OF POST CARD

Dear Sir: Please return this card immediately. Check One

I have information pertaining to your questionnaire, which I shall send you by March 18, 1950. I have no information pertaining to your questionnaire. Sincerely

School

64 APPENDIX B University of California at Los Angeles Kerckhoff Hall, 402 Westwood Blvd., Los Angeles 24, California. XJCXiA Bruins June 30, 1949 Mr. Carroll H. Dunning, President Dunningoolor Corporation 932 North La Brea Avenue Hollywood, 38, California Dear Mr. Dunning: I presume that most of the sales of your DUNNING- ANIMATIC Projector are for sales training and promotion with the use of l6mm film strips. I had another idea In mind when we purchased your device and with it we have achieved some very surprising results. We photographed a series of short length 16mm motion pictures showing our track and field men in action. Regular motion picture projection is too fast to analyze their form and style. But with the aid of the Dunning Animatic Projector, which advances from one single frame picture to another in a 200th of a second and permits us to stop any individual frame indefinitely, I was able to study their form and advise a method of correction. From now on we will take regular 16mm motion pictures in about 20 foot lengths of the various trainees every two weeks during the season and study them with your projector. I will give my stamp of approval to the DUNNING- ANIMATIC Projector to anyone who wants to try to achieve championship form, for I am sure it bids fair to help all young men who are searching for improvement that will make them outstand­ ing in their individual sport. Cordially yours, (sgd) Elvin C . Drake Track Coach ECD:mc