Event Title

Learning A Novel Motor Task Helps Students Apply Motor Control Principles To PT Practice

Speaker's Credentials

PT, EdD, GCS, CEEAA

Associate Director, DPT-Tampa

Location

Melnick

Format

Podium Presentation

Start Date

21-1-2017 3:15 PM

End Date

21-1-2017 3:45 PM

Abstract

Introduction: Motor control refers to the organization and control of movement as it relates to the task, individual, and environment (TIE); whereas motor learning is a permanent change in skill resulting from practice. Both concepts are central to the practice of physical therapy (PT) and are rooted in principles of neuroscience, movement, and psychology/learning principles. Traditionally, students had difficulty translating this ‘science’ into practice. Purpose: This session describes the development, modification, and outcomes of an active learning assignment in which students apply theories of motor control/learning to themselves as they learn a novel skill. Description of Innovation: The semester-long assignment asks students to: a) choose a novel motor task to learn, b) apply the principles of motor control and motor learning in guided, reflective journal entries, c) videotape their progress over the semester, and d) reflect on how the experience can impact their practice of PT. Two major modifications over time include the change from an instructor-selected skill (juggling) to a student-selected skill; and from open-ended reflections to guided questions. Feedback is provided individually and to entire class. Outcomes: Motor learning journals demonstrated application of 3 main areas relevant to motor learning/control: TIE analysis, practice variables, and mobility/balance or hand control. Two areas needing more clarification included open tasks and regulatory environmental factors, while practice intensity needs more emphasis. Discussion: Motor learning assignments facilitate students’ ability to apply theory to PT Practice and also helps identify areas that need clarification or emphasis.

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COinS
 
Jan 21st, 3:15 PM Jan 21st, 3:45 PM

Learning A Novel Motor Task Helps Students Apply Motor Control Principles To PT Practice

Melnick

Introduction: Motor control refers to the organization and control of movement as it relates to the task, individual, and environment (TIE); whereas motor learning is a permanent change in skill resulting from practice. Both concepts are central to the practice of physical therapy (PT) and are rooted in principles of neuroscience, movement, and psychology/learning principles. Traditionally, students had difficulty translating this ‘science’ into practice. Purpose: This session describes the development, modification, and outcomes of an active learning assignment in which students apply theories of motor control/learning to themselves as they learn a novel skill. Description of Innovation: The semester-long assignment asks students to: a) choose a novel motor task to learn, b) apply the principles of motor control and motor learning in guided, reflective journal entries, c) videotape their progress over the semester, and d) reflect on how the experience can impact their practice of PT. Two major modifications over time include the change from an instructor-selected skill (juggling) to a student-selected skill; and from open-ended reflections to guided questions. Feedback is provided individually and to entire class. Outcomes: Motor learning journals demonstrated application of 3 main areas relevant to motor learning/control: TIE analysis, practice variables, and mobility/balance or hand control. Two areas needing more clarification included open tasks and regulatory environmental factors, while practice intensity needs more emphasis. Discussion: Motor learning assignments facilitate students’ ability to apply theory to PT Practice and also helps identify areas that need clarification or emphasis.