A Test of the Schema Theory of Discrete Motor Learning

The interaction of the low-and high-variability groups from training to recall performance supported the prediction that a group with more variable training would exhibit an increased rate of learning when introduced to a new instance of the response class.

Abstract

The recall schema in a response class of discrete movements was investigated, with variability of practice being manipulated before transfer to a new instance in the response class. After the transfer, the varied-practice group performance was superior to the continuous practice group. The interaction of the low-and high-variability groups from training to recall performance supported the prediction that a group with more variable training would exhibit an increased rate of learning when introduced to a new instance of the response class. After two days, the superiority of the high-variability group over the low disappeared, suggesting the memory representations of the two groups were no different under withdrawal of knowledge of results.