S.C.I.C.E.V Feedback System: Advancing Psychomotor Development, Skills, and Technique in Volleyball
, Dan Alexandru Szabo, Răzvan Tudor Roșculet, George D MocanuThis study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel Computerized System for Learning, Correction, and Evaluation in Volleyball (S.C.I.C.E.V) in enhancing the technical performance of beginner volleyball players through immediate audio and visual feedback. The purpose is to determine whether real-time, detailed feedback improves the execution of the two-handed down pass technique more effectively than conventional training methods. By utilizing advanced sensor technology and systematic evaluations, this research seeks to establish a reliable and efficient methodology for correcting technical errors, accelerating skill acquisition, and promoting optimal motor learning in young athletes.
Technical precision is essential in volleyball, particularly for beginners, where improper techniques can hinder long-term performance and increase injury risk. Traditional training methods often rely on delayed feedback, limiting their effectiveness in correcting errors promptly.
The S.C.I.C.E.V introduces an innovative approach using wireless sensors to provide real-time audio and visual feedback. This technology enables immediate error detection and correction, promoting faster and more accurate skill acquisition.
This study aims to validate S.C.I.C.E.V’s effectiveness in reducing technical errors and enhancing the two-handed down pass technique in beginner volleyball players, comparing its outcomes to conventional training methods.
The study involved 60 beginner-level athletes (mean age 10.5 ± 1.2 years, sports experience 1.48 ± 0.504 years) from Club Sportiv Arcada Galati, evaluated by three tests using the computerized system S.C.I.C.E.V, which showed that immediate and detailed feedback (audio and video) improves the technical performance of beginner volleyball athletes compared to conventional training methods. Statistical analyses were performed using S.P.S.S. (Version 26). Using multivariate statistics, MANOVA assessed differences by feedback (between subjects) and testing time (within subjects). Assumptions were checked with Mauchly’s and Levene’s tests, and univariate analyses explored detailed effects and interactions.
In analyzing feedback in motor learning, an advanced learning and correction system in volleyball is presented, utilizing ten sensors on the arms, which are protected and wirelessly connected to a computer. The computerized learning, correction, and evaluation system consists of 10 sensors: 5 on the right and 5 on the left. Cuffs and harnesses protect the sensors and measure different sizes, providing data on ball contact on the forearms of the player, equality or inequality of the forces exerted by the ball on the player’s forearms, level of the upper limbs concerning the shoulder, condition of the elbow joint, and grip of the palms during execution. The data acquired in this way is transmitted remotely (maximum 20 meters) wirelessly to the computer. The software on the computer performs a real-time data analysis and sends a voice response to the player to provide correction.
At the end of the training session, the coach will have a statistic of correct and wrong executions and can find out the segment in which the execution is deficient. Most importantly, the player can self-correct after each message heard. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by introducing an innovative and practical system, S.C.I.C.E.V, for enhancing technical learning in volleyball. The understanding of real-time feedback mechanisms (audio and visual) in motor learning is advanced by providing a detailed framework for integrating sensor technology into training. The study highlights the effectiveness of immediate feedback in improving performance, offering an evidence-based methodology for technical correction and self-regulation in beginner athletes.
The study demonstrated that the use of the S.C.I.C.E.V system significantly improved the technical execution of the two-handed down pass in beginner volleyball players. Athletes who received real-time audio and visual feedback showed marked reductions in technical errors compared to those trained with conventional methods.
Practitioners are encouraged to incorporate real-time feedback systems, such as S.C.I.C.E.V, into volleyball training programs to accelerate skill acquisition and minimize technical errors. Sensor-based evaluations should provide detailed and actionable feedback, enabling immediate corrections and long-term development. To maximize the effectiveness of such systems, practitioners should ensure that the training environment supports the practical application of advanced technologies by offering the necessary infrastructure and guidance.
Researchers are advised to focus on refining the S.C.I.C.E.V system by designing more compact, user-friendly, and cost-effective sensors to improve usability and accessibility. Longitudinal studies should be conducted to assess the long-term impact of real-time feedback on performance improvement and injury prevention. Additionally, researchers should investigate the psychological effects of immediate feedback on athlete motivation and engagement to enhance the overall effectiveness of these systems.
Integrating systems like S.C.I.C.E.V into sports education highlights the transformative potential of technology in skill development. Enhancing technical precision and reducing errors can lead to more effective learning experiences for young athletes while reducing the risk of injuries and fostering lifelong engagement in sports. These advancements contribute to developing inclusive, efficient, and motivating training environments, ultimately improving the quality of youth sports programs and supporting broader efforts to promote active and healthy lifestyles.
Future research should focus on further refining the S.C.I.C.E.V system by developing more minimalist and user-friendly sensors to enhance practicality and accessibility in training environments. Additionally, exploring the system’s application across different volleyball techniques and other sports could broaden its impact. Longitudinal studies could also evaluate the sustained benefits of real-time feedback on performance and injury prevention, ensuring the system’s effectiveness over extended periods and diverse athletic levels.
Back