The Neurochemical Basis of the Contextual Interference Effect

Efficient practice organization maximizes learning outcome. Although randomization of practice as compared to blocked practice damages training performance, it boosts retention performance, an effect called contextual interference (CI). Motor learning modulates the GABAergic (gamma-aminobutyric acid) system within the sensorimotor cortex (SM), however, it is unclear whether different practice regimes differentially modulate this system and whether this is impacted by aging. Young and older participants were trained on three variations of a visuomotor task over three days, following either blocked or random practice schedule, and re-tested six days later.
Source: Neurobiology of Aging - Category: Neuroscience Authors: Source Type: research