Mechanical guidance
Mechanical guidance is when the performer is guided by equipment to support the learner whilst practicing the skill. The use of equipment when practicing a new skill offers safety and allows the learner to gain confidence.
The coach would use mechanical guidance at the early stage of learning to allow the learner to practice the skill safely allowing them to get a 'feel' for the movement. An example of this would be using a float in swimming to develop leg action and body position in front crawl.
At the autonomous stage of learning, mechanical guidance is used by the coach to allow the performer to develop complex moves. For example practicing a double front somersault using a hoist in trampolining.
Question
Watching an elite athlete perform a skill before trying it yourself is an example of which type of guidance?
Visual guidance as you are watching an example of how the skill should be performed.