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Cognitive and neural foundations of discrete sequence skill: a TMS study
Marit F L Ruitenberg1, Willem B Verwey1, Dennis J L G Schutter2
1Cognitive Psychology and Ergonomics, University of Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands.
Neuropsychologia
|February 4, 2014
Summary
This study supports the dual processor model for skilled movement sequences. The pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA) is crucial for initiating motor chunks, especially in complex sequences.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Motor Control
Background:
- Skilled discrete movement sequences transition from slow, stimulus-based to fast, chunk-based execution.
- The dual processor model posits cognitive and motor systems interact to explain sequence performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To behaviorally validate the dual processor model's assumptions.
- To investigate the role of the pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA) in discrete sequence learning and execution.
Main Methods:
- Behavioral testing of discrete key-press sequences.
- Application of inhibitory 20-minute 1-Hz off-line repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the pre-SMA.
Main Results:
- Behavioral data confirmed core assumptions of the dual processor model.
- Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) results indicated pre-SMA involvement in motor chunk initiation.
- Pre-SMA engagement increased with sequence complexity.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the dual processor model for discrete sequence execution.
- The pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA) plays a key role in initiating motor chunks.
- Pre-SMA is not involved in stimulus-response or associative learning.
