Final answer:
Closed skills are performed in predictable environments and can be enhanced through repetitive practice, while open skills occur in changing conditions and can be improved with varied practice and decision-making exercises. In professional settings, job-specific skills need continuous updating, whereas transferable skills require a broad developmental approach to aid career progression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between closed skills and open skills can be understood in terms of predictability and control within a performance environment. Closed skills are those that are performed in a stable, predictable environment where performers can plan their movements in advance. An example of a closed skill could be a gymnast performing a routine on the balance beam. In contrast, open skills occur in variable and unpredictable environments, requiring the performer to adapt to changing situations. A soccer player dribbling the ball down the field and reacting to the opponents' movements exemplifies an open skill.
To enhance transfer of closed skills, strategies can include repetitive practice, drills that focus on the refinement of the specific movement patterns required, and simulating the stable environment to ensure consistency. For open skills, strategies might include practicing in varying conditions, engaging in decision-making drills, and experiencing a wide range of scenarios to increase adaptability and flexible thinking within the sport or job.
Within a professional context, honing job-specific skills requires staying updated on developments within the role, the company, and the wider industry. Meanwhile, refining transferable skills encompasses a broader developmental approach, which is essential for career progress, as employers often seek individuals with skills that can be applied to multiple tasks and settings.