Critical Variables in Adaptive Motor Skills Training

Abstract

Automatic adaptive training procedures for motor skills learning have been suggested for several years. Adaptive training is a closed-loop system in which some aspect of the student's performance is monitored and used in a computer algorithm to adjust the difficulty of the training task. Only limited research exists on the evaluation of these procedures both in basic laboratory motor learning tasks and in applications to flying training using synthetic flight trainers. In this paper critical variables dealing with the performance measurement procedure, the choice of the adaptive variable, and the appropriate adaptive logic are evaluated. The results of a series of laboratory studies are reviewed, and several suggestions for additional research as well as a general model of instruction are discussed. It was concluded that the most effective automated adaptive motor skills training probably should use multivariate performance measurement schemes which manipulate stimulus-related adaptive variables in connection with a closed-loop adaptive logic model that is optimized for individual differences.

On the Role of Error in Motor Learning

“…The goal outcome would be a balance of errorful and errorless performances throughout the entire skill acquisition process. Support for the adaptive training view was provided in a number of unpublished technical reports reviewed by Williges and Williges (1978). A revival of this general idea has recently been expressed under the term adaptive scaffolding (Tullis, Goldstone, & Hanson, 2015).…”

Adaptive Training Considerations for Use in Simulation-Based Systems

“…For example, in an aircraft simulator, a number of system and task variables are combined to determine effective performance, therefore, performance measurement considerations are critical. Williges and Williges (1978) remark that another critical variable to consider during adaptive training is the selection of the adaptive variable used to manipulate task difficulty. A review of the empirical evidence suggests that the rate of "adaptation" is enhanced through the use of stimulus related variables versus response related variables.…”

“…Lastly, they suggest that the effects of different types and numbers of adaptive variables need to be assessed through factorial manipulations so that the separate, as well as interacting effects can be determined. Williges and Williges (1978) reviewed the literature regarding the selection of the adaptive logic scheme. They note that this process is the core of any adaptive training program.…”

In the blink of an electronic eye: A prospectus

“…A prominent example can bd found by extending those efforts made in the area 0 adaptive training, which involves the use of computer able to modify a training presentation in the process 0 presenting it, thus tailoring the session to the needs a the individual. Instances of adaptive procedures may b found in Atkinson (1976), Hudson (1969), and Willige and Williges (1978), among others.…”