Effects of Different Observational Angles in Learner-Chosen Video Self-Modeling on Task Acquisition and Retention

This study aimed to examine the influence of different observational angles in video self-modeling on task acquisition and retention. We randomly assigned 42 Japanese university students to three camera-angle groups, i.e., a front-angle, a rear-angle, and a control group. The participants performed a 3 × 6 × 3 cup-stacking task with three sequential laps. The front- and rear-angle groups viewed video self-modeling created from previously self-chosen videos. The retention phase was conducted 1 week after the acquisition phase. The rear-angle group demonstrated the fastest movement times in the acquisition phase. Our findings indicate that viewing learner-chosen video self-modeling from a rear angle enhances motor skill acquisition but does not contribute to motor skill learning.