Sensorimotor synchronization: a review of recent research (2006-2012)

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Psychology

Background:

• Sensorimotor synchronization (SMS) involves coordinating rhythmic movements with external stimuli.
• Previous reviews covered tapping, music performance, and rate limits of SMS.
• The field of SMS research has seen significant growth and expansion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To supplement and extend previous reviews on sensorimotor synchronization.
• To survey recent research in the burgeoning field of SMS.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of current SMS knowledge.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on sensorimotor synchronization.
• Categorization of research into four main areas: tapping studies, diverse movements, interpersonal synchronization, and neuroscience.
• Synthesis of findings from the surveyed studies.

Main Results:

• SMS research has expanded beyond simple tapping to include dance and nonhuman animal synchronization.
• Interpersonal synchronization, particularly in musical ensembles, is a key area of recent investigation.
• Significant advancements have been made in understanding the neuroscience of SMS.

Conclusions:

• The field of sensorimotor synchronization has rapidly advanced in recent years.
• New knowledge has been acquired across various domains of SMS, including motor control, social interaction, and neural mechanisms.
• This review highlights the dynamic and expanding nature of SMS research.