Perceptual and Attentional Constraints on 1 : 1 Bimanual Coordination . ( May 2010 )

Perceptual and Attentional Constraints on 1:1 Bimanual Coordination. (May 2010) Attila J. Kovacs, B.S., Transilvania University; M.Ed., Wayne State University Chair of Advisory Committee: Dr. Charles H. Shea Two experiments were conducted in an attempt to further the understanding of how previously identified intrinsic constraints and perceptual factors interact in influencing the learning and performance of various bimanual coordination patterns. The purpose of Experiment 1 was to determine the influence of Lissajous feedback on 1:1 bimanual coordination patterns (0, 90, 180 phase lags) when the movement amplitudes of the two limbs were different. Participants coordinated rhythmic movements of their forearms while being provided separate feedback for each limb (noLissajous group) or integrated feedback (Lissajous group). Data from Experiment 1 supports the notion that the lead-lag relationship as well as amplitude assimilation between limbs observed in the literature can be partially attributed to the visualperceptual factors present in the testing environment. When participants are provided integrated feedback in the form of Lissajous plots and templates much of the lead-lag and amplitude assimilation effects were eliminated and relative phase error and variability were also greatly reduced after only 3 min of practice under each condition.