From: hubermanlab
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Proprioception and sensory perception are crucial elements for mastering new skills, particularly in the realm of motor skill learning. During a recent episode of the Huberman Lab Podcast, neurobiologist Andrew Huberman from Stanford University, delved into the intricacies of how these elements contribute to skill acquisition and performance improvement.
Understanding Sensory Perception and Proprioception
According to Huberman, effective skill learning involves three primary components:
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Sensory Perception: This involves perceiving what you are doing and what is happening around you. It encompasses both external and internal cues such as what you see, hear, and sometimes even feel. For example, during learning, one may focus on visual cues like the position of a target or auditory cues like rhythm and tempo in music.
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Proprioception: Often referred to as the “sixth sense,” proprioception is the awareness of the position and movement of the body parts in relation to one another. This internal feedback system helps individuals adjust their movements to refine their skill performance.
Proprioception allows simplification of complex motor skills by integrating bodily awareness into physical actions, which is vital when performing tasks that require precision and coordination. Huberman highlights the crucial role of these sensory systems in acquiring physical skills, such as athletics or musical instrument proficiency through neuroplastic changes.
Role of Errors in Learning
An intriguing aspect of skill learning that Huberman elucidated is the role errors play in enhancing attention and neuroplasticity. Errors are crucial as they activate neural circuits that facilitate learning through increased attentional focus on correcting the mistakes. This approach aligns with the notion that skill improvements often stem from continuous error correction and adaptation through practice emphasizing the importance of making errors [00:38:53].
Open Loop vs. Closed Loop Skills
Before commencing skill acquisition, distinguishing between “open loop” and “closed loop” skills is essential:
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Open Loop Skills: In these skills, the action is performed, and feedback is received afterward. An example is a tennis serve where feedback is obtained after the ball crosses the net.
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Closed Loop Skills: These involve continuous feedback allowing real-time adjustments, such as running or swimming. Learners get feedback on their performance as they practice, enabling them to modify their technique instantly optimizing techniques through real-time adjustments [00:16:23].
In summary, focusing on sensory perception and proprioception during practice sessions significantly enhances motor skill learning. These elements enable the brain to map out and fine-tune movements accurately. Coupled with understanding and leveraging errors, individuals can improve the quality and efficiency of their learning process, leading to better skill acquisition and refinement over time.