Effects of the Model's Skill Level on Observational Motor Learning

Abstract

Observation of a model prior to physical practice often facilitates the acquisition of motor skills. The majority of research studies on observational motor learning has used a skilled model for the demonstration. Recent research, however, suggests that observing an unskilled (learning) model may also be effective. The experiment reported here compared motor skill acquisition following observation of a learning model or a skilled model to the performance of subjects who lacked the benefit of observation. The task was to play a computer tracking game. Subjects were tested in pairs. Observers watched either a skilled or a learning model perform 3 trials. The observers then practiced the game for 3 trials. Observation of another 12 trials was followed by 12 more practice trials. Substantial observational learning was found, as both groups of observers performed better than the learning models after both the 3 initial trials of observation and after 12 more observation trials. However, there were no differences due to observing the skilled or the learning model. These findings are discussed in relation to theoretical issues of observational learning.

Neural correlates of the processing of another’s mistakes: A possible underpinning for social and observational learning

“…Social etiquette, for instance, is largely learned through observation of other's behavior (Blakemore et al 2004). Moreover, a substantial body of work has demonstrated improved performance on simple or complex motor tasks after watching skilled or unskilled models (Blandin and Proteau 2000;Carroll and Bandura 1982;Pollock and Lee 1992). Monkeys show an ability to learn to use a stick to reach food outside their cage if such behavior is initially demonstrated by a human model (Tomasello, Davis-Dasilva, Camak & Bard 1987).…”

“…While much learning occurs through direct experience, humans and other organisms also have the capacity to learn through observation of others (Dawson and Foss 1965;Fiorito et al 1990;Pollock and Lee 1992). Social etiquette, for instance, is largely learned through observation of other's behavior (Blakemore et al 2004).…”

Beyond componentry: How principles of motor learning can enhance locomotor rehabilitation of individuals with lower limb loss--A review

“…Among adults who are unimpaired, retention of a variety of motor skills, such as dancing [41] and surgical procedures [42], has been found to improve when observational practice is used before physical practice regardless of whether the learner observes a novice or expert model [43][44]. Engaging in mental practice prior to physical practice has also been shown to result in notable improvements in the performance of motor tasks [34].…”

Effectiveness of the Use of a Learning Model and Concentrated Schedule in Observational Learning of a New Bimanual Coordination Pattern

“…Many researchers of observational learning use expert models [Carroll & Bandura, (1990) ;Weeks, Hall, & Anderson, (1996)], and observing an expert model can provide learners with information on goals and objectives of learning. However, some research suggests that learning models, which shows a process where the novice develop skills, can be effective for observational learning [McCullagh & Caird, (1990); McCullagh & Meyer, (1997); Pollock & Lee, (1992)]. Observing a learning model allows learners to watch early learning stages that a model may experience and provides learners with information regarding what to do and how that should be done in each learning stage.…”