The Benefits of Random Variable Practice for Spatial Accuracy and Error Detection in a Rapid Aiming Task

Abstract

The role of blocked and random variable practice in the development of a spatial error detection mechanism in 2 experiments was investigated in the present study. Twenty-four (Experiment 1) and 40 (Experiment 2) college-aged participants made either 20, 40, or 60° quick lever reversal movements in the sagittal plane. During acquisition in both experiments, blocked practice resulted in less spatial absolute constant error(|CE|) relative to the random group. The blocked practice group showed a smaller mean absolute objective-subjective difference than the random practice group during acquisition (Experiment 1). On no-knowledge of results retention tests in both studies, the random practice group showed a smaller spatial (|CE|) and a smaller mean absolute objective-subjective difference than the blocked practice group, even on a novel amplitude (Experiment 2). The study demonstrated the advantage of random variable practice over blocked variable practice on retention tests for spatial performance and in developing a spatial error detection capability.

Key Words:

• accuracy
• contextual interference
• practice organization
• recognition capability