Comparative Analysis of Learning Speed and Accuracy Movements for Healthy Persons and Persons with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Research background and hypothesis. Probability learning theory suggests that repeating the same movements many times we learn the way the movement is performed with some degree of probability. We suppose that persons with multiple sclerosis learn speed and accuracy movements slower than healthy persons. Research aim was to establish and compare the learning peculiarities of speed and accuracy movements for healthy persons and persons with multiple sclerosis performing a task – five sets of 20 repetitions. Research methods. The sample of the research included 12 healthy persons and 10 persons with multiple sclerosis. The study was conducted using Dynamic Parameter Analyzer DPA-1 for arm and leg movements. Research results showed that multiple sclerosis had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the average speed of movement (Va), maximal speed of movement (Vm), time to maximal speed (TVm), and time to target (Tv). Discussion and conclusions. Learning effect occurred in the course of the whole task, and it was the same for both persons with multiple sclerosis and healthy persons. Research results showed that learning dynamics was almost the same for persons with multiple sclerosis and healthy persons, but the indices of MS persons were worse, i. e. they performed movements slower and with greater variability compared to healthy persons. Keywords: reaction time, manual task, complexity of the task, movement learning.