Transfer of a learned coordination function: Specific, individual and generalizable

Abstract

It is generally held that transfer of practice is a function of the similarity between the originally learned task and the subsequent transfer task. In the present paper, we examine the proposition that individuals learn a coordination function that is specific to the task, individual and yet generalizable, depending on the characteristics of the learned coordination function. Seventeen individuals performed for 5 days the task of learning to throw for accuracy to a target and then performed two transfer tests that differed in terms of the axis of variation that individuals could vary in task outcome. The results showed individual differences in terms of the acquired movement pattern even when a similar performance was achieved. Additionally, the coordination function characterized by principal component analysis and its projection into the landing plane predicted performance in the transfer tests. These results support the proposition that individuals learn a coordination function that is specific, individual and generalizable.

Keywords: Dynamical systems; Skill acquisition; Transfer of practice.