Effects of Response Symmetry upon Bi-Manual Rapid Aiming

Abstract

This experiment investigated effects of response symmetry in a two-handed aiming task. A first-order system with isometric controllers was used to present the task. The Motor Program hypothesis predicts better performance in a symmetric condition because only one set of parameters is required to control both hands. The Divided Attention hypothesis predicts better performance in an asymmetric condition because attention can be more readily switched between hands. Results supported the Divided Attention hypothesis because (1) accuracy was better for the asymmetric condition, and (2) the relative advantage of the asymmetric condition increased as targets became more difficult.