The effect of the availability of a dynamic model on the acquisition of a complex cyclical action

This study examines the effect of the availability of a dynamic model on the acquisition of a complex cyclical action: slalom-type ski movements on a ski-simulator. A two-condition design was used, with N = 20 subjects per condition. In the experimental condition subjects had, during training trials, the benefit of the availability of a dynamic (video) model of an expert performer, while subjects in the control condition were left entirely to “discovery learning”. The dependent variables were the amplitude, frequency and fluency of the movement of the ski-simulator platform on which subjects were required to stand in operating the simulator. Movement characteristics of the platform were recorded by means of a microcomputer (Apple II+) coupled to a Selcom 403 camera (SELSPOT system). Subjects having the benefit of a dynamic model during training were shown, at the end of the five-day training period, to produce more fluent movements (of the platform) and to show greater consistency of fluency and of tempo than subjects left entirely to discovery learning. The results are discussed in the context of theories of perception and of motor learning.