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Published on: June 14, 2019
Effects of practice on variability, effects of variability on transfer
Patricia D Stokes1, Betty Lai, Danielle Holtz
1Department of Psychology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, USA. pstokes@barnard.edu
Summary
Early practice emphasizing high variability in skill acquisition enhances learning and skill transfer. This approach sensitizes learners to changing conditions, improving strategy activation and construction for better performance.
Area of Science:
- Motor learning
- Cognitive psychology
- Skill acquisition
Background:
- Understanding how practice influences skill retention and transfer is crucial for effective learning.
- Variability in practice is a key factor explored in motor skill development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of early practice variability on skill retention and transfer.
- To identify optimal periods for acquiring specific variability levels during skill acquisition.
Main Methods:
- Five experiments were conducted using a computer-generated pyramid display with lag and location constraints.
- Participants practiced under varying levels of path variability.
- Skill retention and transfer were assessed across different experimental conditions.
Main Results:
- An optimal period for acquiring variability levels was identified early in skill acquisition.
- Both low and high variability levels were maintained during skill retention.
- High variability during practice significantly facilitated skill transfer.
Conclusions:
- Early practice requiring high variability sensitizes learners to environmental changes.
- Enhanced perception-performance links, fostered by high variability, facilitate transfer by activating or constructing new strategies.
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