Abstract
We employed a framework of field-based observation, utilizing helmet-mounted camera technology, to investigate pattern-matching aspects of decision-making by experts and non-experts during competitive play in ice hockey. We examined both the frequency with which experts and non-experts reported a decision-making scenario as familiar, or typical to them, and the resulting quality of those decisions.
Expert (n=23) and non-expert (n=14) ice hockey players
were videotaped from egocentric and exocentric positions during competitive game situations. Decision points (n=118) were isolated from the game tapes and player decision quality resulting from each situation was scored independently by two expert coaches. Retrospective interviews were conducted using a cognitive task analysis methodology (Hoffman et al., 1998). Prompted by the game videos, players were queried about the role that
situational familiarity played in their decision-making process.
Experts described decision-making situations as 'familiar' more often than non-experts (
p=.021). Further, the decisions that were judged to be familiar were also judged by coaches to be of superior quality to those decisions that were based on situations that were perceived as 'unfamiliar' (
p=.01).
This pattern-matching aspect of the decision-making process, which isolates decision quality as a function of familiarity, has not previously been examined in dynamic, time-sensitive environments. In light of our findings, we discuss the processes which underpin the decisions of highly skilled athletes under time constrained situations, in view of models of decision making based on pattern-matching theories of expertise.
