The benefits of random variable practice for spatial accuracy and error detection in a rapid aiming task

The role of blocked and random variable practice in the development of a spatial error detection mechanism in 2 experiments was investigated in the present study. Twenty-four (Experiment 1) and 40 (Experiment 2) college-aged participants made either 20, 40, 60 degrees quick lever reversal movements in the sagittal plane. During acquisition in both experiments, blocked practice resulted in less spatial absolute constant error (ICEI) relative to the random group. The blocked practice group showed a smaller mean absolute objective-subjective difference than the random practice group during acquisition (Experiment 1). On no-knowledge of results retention tests in both studies, the random practice group showed a smaller spatial ICEI and a smaller mean absolute objective-subjective difference than the blocked practice group, even on a novel amplitude (Experiment 2). The study demonstrated the advantage of random variable practice over blocked variable practice on retention tests for spatial performance and in developing a spatial error detection capability.