Abstract
This study considered the schema theory question of practice variability in terms of the use of a variety of target positions and the inherent variability of the motor system which results in repetitions of the same movement being slightly different. Using a two-dimensional task, this study varied the number of target positions presented to the subjects, and sub-groups were established which limited the subjects' freedom to define their own movement paths to the target positions. On the test trials there were no significant differences between the groups in absolute error for distance or direction. In variable error distance, however, the criterion practice group were significantly less variable as were the two fixed-pathway sub-groups. Presenting a clear representation of the movement results in a more consistent performance independent of the target's variability.
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