Specification of direction and extent in motor programming

Abstract

A partial advanced information paradigm that utilizes movement precues about upcoming movements was applied to flexion and extension foot movements of either a large or small extent. By analyzing reaction times obtained when precues gave either no information, partial information about either direction or extent, or complete information about movement parammeters, it was found that initiation times varied as a function of amount of advanced information. Reaction times were fastest in the complete information condition, followed by the partial and no information conditions. With regard to type of parameter to be programmed, extent was faster than direction. Further, the data suggested that direction specification and extent specification must be considered as two serially organized, interdependent, and ordered operations, with the former consuming more time than the latter. © 1982, The Psychonomic Soceity, Inc.. All rights reserved.