The Use of Virtual Reality in Motor Learning: A Multiple Pilot Study Review

Abstract

In recent years, technological improvements have allowed for the creation of V.R. environments for different uses, especially in the training of pilots, astronauts, medical staff, soldiers, and athletes. In regards to physical activity, V.R. is currently being used in two main fields: Exergaming and Rehabilitation. The purpose of this article is to investigate the use of this technology as a means of demonstrating and learning motor abilities in many types of populations and situations. Three studies were done using V.R. In all three of them healthy participants were assigned to a control or test group. These studies were done using two main V.R. systems designed for motor learning: Timocco and IREX. Study 1 tested bi-lateral transfer in the upper limbs; Study 2 tested the differences in improvement using V.R. between internal and extrinsic focus of attention; Study 3 tested differences in different learning strategies in motor tasks-massed practice vs. distributed practice. Study 1 found significant differences between control and test groups; Study 2 did not find that external focus of attention was superior as expected but found a stronger correlation between tests at different days; Study 3 found no significant improvements (p > 0.05) for each group. In conclusion, V.R. can be an effective means of teaching and training basic motor skills, sometimes even superior to "real-life" because of the highly modifiable environment and difficulty in the comfort of one's clinic or home.

The Clinical Utility of Virtual Reality in Neurorehabilitation: A Systematic Review

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