Effect of variability of combined practice (physical and positive self-modeling) on memory reconsolidation and motor skill transfer in children

In this study we manipulate structure of combined practice (physical along with self-modeling of positive self-review) to examine its effects on motor memory reconsolidation process and motor transfer in children. 36 female students (9-12 years old) from Maktabi elementary school of Qom trained Dart throwing. Of the 15 trials (from 1.5, 2, and 2.5 meters in blocked order), Positive self-reviewing videos were provided in the pre-test. A week later, subjects practiced in 3 groups of combined constant, random and blocked practice. Paired samples T test of Means radial error between end of acquisition and tests showed significant improvement in all practice groups (P≤0.05) for 24 hour blocked retention test (after recall), significant improvement in only combined blocked practice group (P=0.016) for 24 hour constant retention test (after recall) and significant decrease in all practice groups for 24 hour transfer test (after recall). Therefore re-stabilizing motor memory during reconsolidation could occur in children and low variable (blocked) practice could lead to more improvements in reconsolidation process and transfer of motor memory in children.