Chapter 2 Perception and Reaction Time in Motor Learning

Perception

Perception is the process by which meaning is attached to sensory information. It involves the recognition and interpretation of stimuli from both internal and external sources.

Information Processing Model

Perception is created by processing all current sensory inputs.

Ecological Approach Model

Perception is created through intuition and affordances, without extensive processing.

Information Processing Model

A model of perception where all external and internal sensory information is processed to form a perception, which is then used to make decisions and take action.

Ecological Approach Model

A model of perception where action possibilities (affordances) are directly perceived based on an individual's intuition and capabilities.

Affordances

Action possibilities of the environment or task in relation to the perceiver's capabilities. Example: A goalkeeper deciding whether to catch or punch a ball based on their intuition.

Factors influencing reaction time

Number of response choices, Levels of uncertainty, Anticipation, Foreperiod consistency, Psychological refractory period, Stimulus-response compatibility.

Reaction time

The brief time lag between the moment when a stimulus is presented (onset of the stimulus) and the initiation of a response.

Hick's Law

Reaction time increases logarithmically as the number of response choices increases.

Uncertainty's effect on reaction time

Higher uncertainty increases reaction time because it takes longer to decide on the correct response.

Anticipation

The ability to predict an event before it occurs, reducing reaction time.

Event anticipation

What will happen.

Temporal anticipation

When it will happen.

Precues

Clues that help predict an opponent's action. Example: A kicker's foot positioning can indicate the direction of the shot.

Psychological refractory period (PRP)

A momentary delay in responding due to an unexpected second stimulus. Example: A feint in sports causing a delayed defensive reaction.

Deception in sports

Deception uses a false precue (feint motion) to mislead an opponent, taking advantage of the psychological refractory period.

Foreperiod consistency

The interval between a warning signal and the actual stimulus. A consistent foreperiod reduces reaction time, which is why Olympic sprinters train with varying foreperiod lengths.

Stimulus-response (S-R) compatibility

The degree to which a stimulus and its response are naturally related. Higher S-R compatibility leads to faster reaction times.

High and low stimulus-response compatibility examples

High S-R compatibility: Steering a car - turning the wheel in the expected direction. Low S-R compatibility: Backing up a trailer - turning the wheel in the opposite direction to move correctly.

S-R compatibility's effect on reaction time

When S-R compatibility is low, additional time is needed to prepare a response, delaying reaction time.