A comparison of modelling and imagery in the acquisition and retention of motor skills

Abstract

Although many researchers have examined the effects of imagery and/or modelling interventions, it is unclear which of the two interventions is more effective. In two experiments, novice learners assessed over multiple trials of a free weight squat lifting or a stabilometer balancing task were given modelling, imagery, a combination of modelling and imagery, or control interventions. Group differences indicated, in general, that groups receiving modelling (modelling, combination) evidenced a more appropriate form than groups that did not receive modelling (imagery, control). When apparent, these differences were already in place after the first of several interventions. Practical implications are that even a single bout of modelling can have immediate beneficial effects on movement form (Experiments 1 and 2) and outcome (Experiment 1).

Keywords:

• Modelling
• imagery
• intervention
• observational learning
• acquisition
• retention

Acknowledgements

Nilam Ram and Penny McCullagh gratefully acknowledge support provided by grant T32 AG20500 from the National Institute on Aging and an internal grant from CSU Eastbay in the preparation of this article. Special thanks to those at the Institute for Developmental and Health Research Methodology at the University of Virginia, the editors, and reviewers for helpful comments on previous versions of this work.