Incidental motor sequence learning: Investigations into its cognitive basis and the effects of neurological impairment and treatment

........................................................................................................................... 2 Acknowledgments ............................................................................................................ 3 Table of contents .............................................................................................................. 4 List of figures: ................................................................................................................... 9 List of tables: .................................................................................................................. 12 I. An investigation of behavioural and neurological implications using the probabilistic Serial Reaction Time task to explore its specific contribution to our understanding of cognition ........................................................................................................................ 13 1.1. General introduction ............................................................................................... 13 1.1.1 Sequence Learning Tasks ...................................................................................... 14 1.1.2 Intentional vs. Incidental ....................................................................................... 15 1.1.3 Standardisation of sequence structures ................................................................ 19 1.1.4 Deterministic vs. probabilistic sequence presentation .......................................... 20 1.1.5 Incidental learning and awareness ....................................................................... 22 1.2. Developments in sequence learning ....................................................................... 24 1.2.1 Multiple Effectors .................................................................................................. 25 1.2.2 Tone counting implications for sequence learning ............................................... 25 1.2.3 Attention and load ................................................................................................ 26 1.2.4 Spatial and perceptual implications ...................................................................... 29 1.2.5 Spatial compatibility ............................................................................................. 31 1.3. Task based learning ................................................................................................ 32 1.3.1 Dual module learning system ................................................................................ 32 1.3.1.1 Evaluation of the dual model learning system ................................................... 34 1.3.1.2 Revised stimulus to response based learning system ........................................ 34 1.3.2 Problems with S-R rule hypothesis ........................................................................ 36 1.4. Imaging studies ....................................................................................................... 37 1.4.1 SRT imaging studies .............................................................................................. 38 1.5. Patient Studies ........................................................................................................ 41 1.5.1. Effects of Basal ganglia impairment on sequence learning ................................. 41 1.5.2 Evidence from Parkinson’s disease ....................................................................... 42 1.5.3 Evidence from dystonia ......................................................................................... 44 1.5.4 Evidence from Huntington’s disease ..................................................................... 45