title: Self-controlled use of a perceived physical assistance device during a balancing task.
abstract: The nature of the relationship between self-controlled conditions and the participant's perception of when and how to use a physical assistance device while practicing a balancing task was examined. Participants in the Self-control group (n= 9) were allowed to decide when to use a balance pole while performing the task, while the Yoked group (n= 9) had no choice regarding pole usage. The Self-control group had immediate performance benefits that persisted on a delayed retention task. Questionnaire results indicated that the Self-control group predominately used the balance pole when attempting a new performance strategy, while the Yoked group reported they would have preferred use of the pole when attempting a new strategy. Results lend support to the assertion that self-controlled conditions facilitate learning because participants can make decisions regarding assistance based on self-generated performance strategy-as relating to their perception of successful movement execution--to a greater extent than under externally controlled conditions.
authors: Gardner-Webb University, Department of Physical Education, Wellness, and Sport Studies, Campus Box 7257, Boiling Springs, NC 28017, USA. jhartman@gardner-webb.edu
authors: Jeffrey M
authors: JM
authors: Hartman
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009048:Motor Skills / Q000502:physiology*; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011214:Practice, Psychological; D012153:Retention, Psychology; D012656:Self-Help Devices / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis