The effect of added-purpose and meaningful occupation on motor learning.
OBJECTIVE
Numerous studies in the occupational therapy literature have investigated the effects of added-purpose (multidimensional, goal-oriented) occupation on performance. Motor learning research has demonstrated that factors that enhance performance measures do not necessarily enhance motor learning. This study examined the effects of both added-purpose and meaningful occupation on motor learning.


METHODS
Twenty subjects (university students) were randomly assigned to either an added-purpose or rote exercise condition. After a skill acquisition phase, retention and transfer scores were obtained, and subjects were asked to rate the meaningfulness of the occupation on a visual analog scale.


RESULTS
A two-way analysis of variance indicated that only the added-purpose occupation resulted in significantly greater motor learning. Additionally, the added-purpose scores were not influenced by the level of meaning assigned to the occupation.


CONCLUSIONS
This study is the first to demonstrate how added-purpose can enhance a more permanent aspect of performance: motor learning. Further research is necessary to determine whether occupations that both are meaningful and have added-purpose are the most effective in enhancing motor learning.
Ferguson
J M
JM
School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Professions, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Trombly
C A
CA
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005260:Female; D005793:Generalization, Psychological; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D009048:Motor Skills; D012153:Retention, Psychology