Explicit learning based on reward prediction error facilitates agile motor adaptations

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295274
• Publication Date: 2023-12-06T18:36:04Z
• Authors: Tjasa Kunavar; Xiaoxiao Cheng; David W. Franklin; Etienne Burdet; Jan Babič
• Keywords: Motor Learning; Sensory cue

Error based motor learning can be driven by both sensory prediction error and reward error. Learning on is termed sensorimotor adaptation, while learning. To investigate the characteristics differences between adaptation learning, we adapted a visuomotor paradigm where subjects performed arm movements presented with either error, signed end-point or binary reward. Before each trial, perturbation indicators in form of visual cues were to inform presence direction perturbation. analyse interconnection designed computational model that distinguishes two errors. Our results indicate novel perturbations irrespective type they received during converged towards same movement patterns. Sensorimotor adaptations led pronounced aftereffect, consequences produced smaller aftereffects suggesting does not alter internal degree as adaptation. Even though all had learned counteract different separately, only those who relied explicit using could timely adapt randomly changing The from suggest operate through distinct processes changes model, whereas employs strategies do result aftereffects. Additionally, demonstrate when humans learn tasks, utilize successfully new environments.