Understanding de novo learning for brain-machine interfaces

De novo motor learning is a form of motor learning characterized by the development of an entirely new and distinct motor controller to accommodate a novel motor demand. Inversely, adaptation is a form of motor learning characterized by rapid, unconscious modifications in a previously established motor controller to accommodate small deviations in task demands. As most of the motor learning involves the adaptation of previously established motor controllers, de novo learning can be challenging to isolate and observe. The recent publication from Haith et al. (Haith AM, Yang CS, Pakpoor J, Kita K. J Neurophysiol 128: 982-993, 2022.) details a novel method to investigate de novo learning using a complex bimanual cursor control task. This research is especially important in the context of future brain-machine interface devices that will present users with an entirely novel motor learning demand, requiring de novo learning.