The effects of Bandwidth knowledge of results (KR) in the acquisition of the dynamometer motor skill

Abstract

Motor learning can be influenced by different factors. Knowledge of Results (KR), a type of extrinsic feedback, exists in one of these factors. There are different ways to provide KR to optimize motor learning. Bandwidth is one of these forms of provision of KR. Considered as a factor that affects motor learning, one must take into consideration the context in which the task is inserted for reliable conclusions. Thus, the objective of the study is to analyze the effects of the bandwidth KR in the learning of the handgrip on the dynamometer. The sample consisted of 48 volunteers of both sexes, from 18 to 35 years old (M = 24, SD = 3.92), and inexperienced in the task. The learning of manual force control through the dynamometer was investigated in two groups: one group that allowed an acceptable error range (10%) and a control group that had no error range (0%), both groups received information from the researcher only if they were outside the allowed error range. Performance was inferred by the mean and standard deviation of the absolute, constant, and variable errors. There was no significant statistical difference between the groups and, considering the mean, the volunteers improved on one of the measures of precision (absolute error) and consistency (variable error) during acquisition.