Motor Learning - Motor Control Theories

A collection of vocabulary flashcards related to Motor Learning and Motor Control Theories.

Motor Control Theories

The theoretical frameworks that describe how the brain and nervous system control movement.

Motor program based theories

Theories suggesting movements are pre-established muscle commands that run without feedback.

Deafferentation

The procedure of cutting sensory nerves so that the central nervous system does not receive sensory information.

Generalized Motor Programs (GMPs)

Stored movement patterns that can be slightly modified to adapt to different situations.

Invariant features

Characteristics of a movement that remain consistent across different performances.

Parameters

Specific characteristics that vary within the execution of an action.

Schema Theory

A theory proposed by Schmidt that explains how motor programs can be adjusted based on environmental conditions.

Reaction time (RT)

The time taken from the presentation of a stimulus to the initiation of a response.

Attractors

Stable behavioral states that the motor system strives to achieve.

Control parameters

Variables in a movement system that can be manipulated to affect performance.

Self-organization

The process by which systems naturally develop ordered structures in response to constraints.

Coordinative Structures

Functional synergies of muscles and joints that work together to produce movement.

Dynamical Systems Theory

A theory that views motor control as a complex system influenced by multiple factors.

Task constraints

Specific requirements that dictate how a movement must be performed.

Environmental constraints

External factors that influence how a movement is executed.

Perception-action coupling

The linking of movement with relevant sensory information from the environment.

Fine motor control

The ability to use small muscle groups for precise movements.

Movement amplitude

The size or range of movement performed during an activity.

Relative time

The proportionate amount of time given to each phase of a movement cycle.

Speed and force

Key control parameters that determine how movements are executed.

Gait

The pattern of how a person walks, which can be analyzed for invariant and variable characteristics.