Constant-random practice and motor learning: Effects of constant practice amount and the manipulation of motor task requirements

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of different amount of constant practice, prior to random practice with manipulation of motor requirements of the task, in the adaptive process in motor learning. The task consisted of pressing five buttons sequentially in conjunction with visual stimulation provided by a coincident timing apparatus in complex tasks. Different sequential response patterns were performed during the random practice. Thirty-three children aged between 10 and 12 randomly assigned to three groups performed different amounts of constant practice: C-R, C-R33%, and C-R66%. The data were analyzed in respect to the timing coincident (absolute, variable, and constant errors) and measures of invariant (relative timing and relative peak force) and variant (overall absolute movement time and peak force) aspects of the movement pattern. The results showed similar performance among groups and that the C-R66% group adapted by modifying the macrostructure.