Midterm Review Notes

Exam Format

• 50 multiple choice questions
• 10-15 questions for each week

Topics Covered

Motor Control & Motor Learning

Motor Control Theories

1. Reflex Theory

   • Concept: Complex movements are series of reflexes.
   • Clinical Implications: Movement behaviors interpreted in terms of reflexes; re-training focuses on modifying reflexes.
   • Limitations: Doesn't explain movement without stimuli or fast movements.

2. Hierarchical Theory

   • Concept: "Top-down" control from higher to lower centers.

3. Neuro-maturation Theory

   • Concept: CNS maturation changes development; cortex development influences skill.
   • Limitations: Overlooks musculoskeletal changes.

4. Motor Programming Theory

   • Concept: Central pattern generators (CPGs) can generate movements without reflexes.
   • Clinical Implications: Abnormal movements linked to CPGs; intervention focuses on functional task retraining.
   • Limitations: Doesn’t explain environmental interaction or task variations.

5. Systems Theory

   • Concept: Considers gravity and mechanical systems in movement.
   • Clinical Implications: Targets mechanical and neural systems; considers problem-solving in therapy.

6. Ecological Theory

   • Concept: Perception guides goal-directed action.
   • Clinical Implications: Encourages exploring multiple solutions based on environment.

Motor Learning Theories

1. Schmidt’s Schema Theory

   • Concept: Motor programs have generalized rules.
   • Clinical Implications: Focus on recall and recognition; variable practice improves learning.

2. Ecological Theory

   • Concept: Coordination between perception and action.
   • Clinical Implications: Emphasizes perception cues and variability.

Motor Learning Models

1. Fitts and Posner’s Three-Stage Model

   • Stages: Cognitive, Associative, Autonomous.

2. Bernstein’s Three-Stage Model

   • Stages: Novice, Advanced, Expert.

3. Gentile’s Two-Stage Model

   • Stages: Understanding task dynamics, fixation/diversification.

Feedback Types

• Intrinsic Feedback: From sensory systems.
• Extrinsic Feedback: Augments intrinsic feedback; includes concurrent and terminal feedback.
• Knowledge of Results/Performance: Terminal feedback on outcome/performance pattern.

Practice Conditions

• Massed Practice: More practice than rest.
• Distributed Practice: Equal or more rest than practice.
• Variable Practice: Enhances adaptability.
• Blocked vs. Random Practice: Different benefits based on learning stage.

Developmental Milestones

Development of Reaching

• Sequence of grasp development from birth to 5 months.

Advanced Gross Motor Skills

• Differences between jumping, hopping, galloping, sliding.
• Running: Early characteristics vs. proficient running.

Typical Development

• Newborn to 12 Months: Key motor milestones and reflexes.

Clinical Application

Feedback and Practice in Clinical Scenarios

• Apply different feedback types to enhance learning.
• Assess practice conditions for optimal learning outcomes.

Summary

These notes cover the fundamental theories and models of motor control and learning, with insights into clinical applications related to feedback and practice conditions. Understanding various developmental milestones and motor skills differences are crucial for applying these theories in real-world settings.