Discussion-Motor-Skill Learning

Motor learning leads to a relatively permanent change in physical movements and activity of a person. This type of learning is related to acquiring processes needed for complex movements like speaking or playing the piano, which often start out as very difficult but through practice, they become much smoother and accurate. Additionally, motor-skill learning plays an important role in interpreting simple movements, such as reflexes, as the body and environment change. Therefore, though we may not be completely aware of motor learning as it takes place, it is a vital area of learning that is related to almost everything we do.

Complete the Motor Training Activity at the following link:

• Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). (2008). Mirror-tracing activity. Retrieved from http://media.hhmi.org/biointeractive/activities/mirror/mirror-tracing-activity-generic.pdf

Based on the activity, address the following:

• Discuss your outcome with this activity. What did you learn about motor learning?

• Based on your readings, identify which theory of motor-skill learning best fits this activity. Why do you consider it to be the best fit?

• Apply what you have learned during this activity to a real-life learning experience, either for yourself, or for someone you are teaching.