Jason Laffer
Before and during your higher degree, I highly recommend taking the time to network and ask...
Key research areas/interests: Skill aquisition, Biomechanics, Motor, Control, Elite Sport Volleyball
Principal Supervisor: Dr Job Fransen
Summary of research project
'Expertise, perceptual-cognitive behaviour and the effect of priming during a dynamic, in situ, Volleyball blocking task.'
The project aims to investigate elements of differentiation between expert and novice sports performers. In this case, eye-tracking glasses are being used to analyse the gaze patterns (where players are looking, for how long and in what order) of volleyball blockers of different playing levels.
Why did you decide to embark on your research degree at the Faculty of Health at UTS?
I have always had an interest and ambition to be involved in elite sport. This was the first reason why I chose to study a Bachelor of Human Movement. Towards the end of my degree, I discovered an opportunity at the Australian Institute of Sport which required applicants to have a post-graduate degree, which Faculty of Health could facilitate.
What contribution to knowledge are you planning to make with your research project?
I plan to contribute to the growing knowledge surrounding decision making in elite athletes. In particular I plan to grow knowledge in the sport of volleyball. The hope is then to be able to determine a gaze profile of elite blockers which can then be used for training/coaching purposes.
Who will benefit from your research? How?
My work will assist Players, Coaches & Researchers in Skill Acquisition.
Players and Coaches will benefit from research that suggests visual gaze is essential to performance – a theory that lacks current data (to which my research will heighten). For researchers in skill acquisition, the use of eye-tracking glasses is becoming more common in research of skill acquisition. However these studies have been limited to either video recordings or stable in-situ settings. With the development of more mobile technology, analysis can now be done in more dynamic situations. This study will aid in the development of research methods.
My research will also assist in decision making in elite athletes. In particular I will aid knowledge in gaze profile of elite blockers, with specific reference to Volleyball which can be used to better training and coaching in the field
How did you go about selecting your supervisor?
My supervisor, Dr Job Fransen, was suggested to me though a meeting with Professor Aaron Coutts. I first met Job as a lecturer for Skill Acquisition, and Aaron was helpful in convincing me of his suitability in my field of interest. After an initial meeting with Job, we shared our ideas and realised the potential for my project.
What has been the most valuable aspect of your research student experience at the Faculty of Health at UTS?
The staff members within the Sport and Science faculty have been increasingly welcoming and supportive towards my involvement as a post-graduate student. Reaching out to them has helped me gain networking opportunities, not only at UTS, but also though their contacts at various other institutions or sporting clubs. I highly recommend taking the time to network and ask questions about current projects and study history.
What advice would you give to future research students thinking about starting a higher degree in research at the Faculty of Health?
The first step is to consider what subjects you enjoy and what subjects you are good at during your course. Afterwards, you should definitely make the time to have a meeting with your course organiser and head of faculty to discuss your options. A post-graduate degree focusing on these subjects will definitely be enlightening to you and useful to employers in higher fields.
