Motor Learning

Synonyms

Motor skill learning; Motor skill acquisition

Definition

Motor learning reflects a relatively permanent change in a person’s capability to perform a motor skill (Schmidt and Lee 2005). Learning occurs as a function of practice, and individuals typically go through various stages of learning. Fitts and Posner (1967) proposed three learning phases: the cognitive, associative, and autonomous phase. The cognitive phase is characterized by the learner trying to figure out what exactly needs to be done. Considerable cognitive activity is typically required in this stage, in which movements are controlled in a relatively conscious manner. During this phase, learners often experiment with different strategies to find out which ones work or do not work in bringing them closer to the movement goal. Also, learners tend to pay attention to the step-by-step execution of the skill, which requires considerable attentional capacity. The result of using conscious control strategies is that...