Information Load and Response Consistency in Sequential Short-Term Motor Memory

Abstract

The short-term retention of movement sequences of varying information loads was investigated to determine whether the recall accuracy was based upon central movement sources (motor plans) or upon peripheral sources (afferent input). A 2-dimensional joystick apparatus was used and the experimental variables were: information load (2, 4, and 8 movements), input control (S-controlled and E-controlled), and recall consistency (first and second recall). Measures of absolute, constant, and variable error were analyzed in a treatment by Ss design, using university Ss (N = 12). Information load was inversely related to recall accuracy. S-controlled input was more accurate than E-controlled input at the highest load, and response consistency was high for all conditions. These results were discussed in the context of the utilization of motor plans rather than peripheral traces in this type of task.