title: An interpolated activity during the knowledge-of-results delay interval eliminates the learning advantages of self-controlled feedback schedules.
abstract: The learning advantages of self-controlled knowledge-of-results (KR) schedules compared to yoked schedules have been linked to the optimization of the informational value of the KR received for the enhancement of one's error-detection capabilities. This suggests that information-processing activities that occur after motor execution, but prior to receiving KR (i.e., the KR-delay interval) may underlie self-controlled KR learning advantages. The present experiment investigated whether self-controlled KR learning benefits would be eliminated if an interpolated activity was performed during the KR-delay interval. Participants practiced a waveform matching task that required two rapid elbow extension-flexion reversals in one of four groups using a factorial combination of choice (self-controlled, yoked) and KR-delay interval (empty, interpolated). The waveform had specific spatial and temporal constraints, and an overall movement time goal. The results indicated that the self-controlled + empty group had superior retention and transfer scores compared to all other groups. Moreover, the self-controlled + interpolated and yoked + interpolated groups did not differ significantly in retention and transfer; thus, the interpolated activity eliminated the typically found learning benefits of self-controlled KR. No significant differences were found between the two yoked groups. We suggest the interpolated activity interfered with information-processing activities specific to self-controlled KR conditions that occur during the KR-delay interval and that these activities are vital for reaping the associated learning benefits. These findings add to the growing evidence that challenge the motivational account of self-controlled KR learning advantages and instead highlights informational factors associated with the KR-delay interval as an important variable for motor learning under self-controlled KR schedules.
authors.affiliation: School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON, Canada. carterjmike@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Carter
authors.affiliation: School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
authors.forename: Diane M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Ste-Marie
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D030141:Feedback, Psychological; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D007721:Knowledge of Results, Psychological; D008297:Male; D009048:Motor Skills; D011214:Practice, Psychological; D011597:Psychomotor Performance; D013997:Time Factors; D055815:Young Adult