motor control unit 6

What is motor program theory?

It suggests that movements are controlled by pre-structured commands stored in the brain, which are executed without needing constant sensory feedback.

What are the strengths of motor program theory?

It explains rapid, well-learned movements and supports the idea of stored movement patterns for efficiency.

What are the limitations of motor program theory?

It struggles to explain novel movements, adaptability, and the role of environmental feedback during movement.

What research evidence supports the existence of motor programs?

Studies on reaction time, deafferentation (loss of sensory feedback), and movement sequencing suggest pre-planned motor commands exist.

How does the startle reflex support motor program theory?

It shows that a startling stimulus can trigger a prepared movement faster than usual, indicating pre-loaded motor commands.

What is a generalized motor program (GMP)?

A GMP is a flexible template for a class of movements that can be adapted to different situations.

What are motor schemas?

They are rules developed through experience that help modify GMPs based on environmental and task-specific factors.

Why are GMPs and motor schemas important?

They allow for movement adaptability and efficiency across varying conditions and tasks.

What is dynamic systems theory in motor control?

It views movement as emerging from the interaction of multiple systems (e.g., body, environment, task) without central commands.

What are the strengths of dynamic systems theory?

It explains adaptability, coordination, and the role of environmental and biomechanical constraints.

What are its limitations?

It can be complex to model and may underemphasize the role of cognitive planning in movement.

What is self-organization in motor control?

It refers to the spontaneous emergence of movement patterns from system interactions without external control.

What is non-linear behaviour in movement?

It means small changes in conditions can lead to sudden, large changes in movement patterns (e.g., gait transitions).

Why are these concepts important?

They help explain how movement adapts and evolves naturally in response to changing demands.

Why is understanding motor control theories important for practitioners?

It guides instructional strategies, helping coaches and therapists tailor interventions to improve learning and performance.

How can motor control theories influence teaching strategies?

They inform decisions about feedback, practice structure, and task design to optimize skill acquisition and retention.