Learning as change of coordination dynamics: theory and experiment

Area of Science:

• Biological Coordination Dynamics
• Motor Learning Theory
• Movement Pattern Analysis

Background:

• Coordinated movement involves not just the pattern but also the underlying dynamics.
• Previous research highlights the importance of collective variables and stability measures in understanding coordination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the theoretical framework of biological coordination pattern learning.
• To propose and test hypotheses regarding the role of dynamics and behavioral information in motor learning.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical modeling using equations of motion for collective variables.
• Experimental assessment of coordination pattern stability and change.
• Analysis of relative phase learning in rhythmic movements.

Main Results:

• Learning modifies the dynamic properties and stability of coordination patterns.
• Learned coordination dynamics induce systematic behavioral deviations towards the learned pattern.
• Learning can introduce instabilities if initial and learned performances significantly differ.

Conclusions:

• Coordination learning is governed by evolving dynamics and behavioral information.
• Motor learning affects dynamic properties on distinct timescales of performance and learning.
• The dynamic theory provides testable predictions for motor learning research.