Dual-Task Performance in Motor Learning

Synonyms

Divided attention

Definition

Dual-task performance requires an individual to perform two tasks (i.e., Task A and Task B) simultaneously. Typically this type of performance is contrasted with single-task performance in which the individual only has to perform one task at a time (Task A or B).

Motor learning occurs when an individual demonstrates relatively enduring improvements in their capability to perform a motor task after practice.

Theoretical Background

Motor learning proceeds in stages. Historically, three stages of motor learning were proposed (Fitts and Posner 1967). The first stage was named the cognitive stage, the second the associative stage, and the third the autonomous stage. One of the reasons for naming the first stage the cognitive stage is that cognitive processes are highly involved in this stage of learning. In particular, attention to the instructions and to the demands of the motor task to be learned is crucial during this stage of learning. In contrast,...