Individualized Challenge Point Practice as a Method to Aid Motor Sequence Learning

Abstract

We conducted two studies to investigate if and how: (1) the rate of skill acquisition was related to motor performance at retention of a serial RT task (Study 1); and (2) whether rate of skill acquisition and baseline performance could be used to design schedules of practice related to contextual interference (CI) to enhance motor learning (Study 2). In Study 1, a slower rate of skill acquisition of repeating sequences in practice was related to faster response times at retention. Based on performance in Study 1, three levels of individualized CI were created for Study 2. Compared to low and moderate levels of CI, the higher CI practice condition led to faster response times in retention. We conclude that an individualized ‘challenge point’, which generates high CI enhances motor learning by optimizing challenge.

Keywords:

• Learning curve
• contextual interference
• motor learning
• serial task

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research (MSFHR-16134 to JN); Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Discovery Grant 2016-04269 to NJH, Discovery Grant RGPIN 401890-11 to LAB, PGS D3 346975 to KPW).