Perceptual motion : expectancies in movement perception and action

Catherine J. Stevens, Andreas A. Ioannides

    Research output: Chapter in Book / Conference PaperConference Paper

    Abstract

    ![CDATA[There is growing evidence that action and perception are intimately linked and that when we observe an action we use the repertoire of motor representations used to produce the same action. We contend that to explain the processes that underpin motor perception and action theoretical approaches and tools are required that create controlled and graded differentiation between them. In the experiment reported here, we use an established and reliable protocol from human timing and expectancy research with the intention of yielding graded differences between the extremes of perception and action. Synchronization protocols involve the presentation of temporal patterns that set up event expectancies (Barnes & Jones, 2000; Large & Jones, 1999). For example, a test stimulus is presented that occurs at the expected location as predicted by prior inter-onset intervals (IOIs), or one that is early or late relative to the IOIs. This method leads to i) behavioural responses that are quantifiable; ii) cognitive expectancies that relate to an implied or anticipated event and enable investigation of the role of central processes; iii) similar tasks that can be used under both perception and action conditions. Theories propose that movement perception and neural simulation are constrained by the observer’s motor competence and expectations. Therefore, effects of expertise will be used to further differentiate perception and action. The present sample was divided into performing musical instrumentalists and those with no specialist expertise. The former sample, through years of training and practice, will have developed heightened fine motor control for finger movements and excellent auditory acuity. This experiment investigates the hypothesis that the expectancy profile is influenced by perception or action induction. Specifically, action induction involves motor practice and this should facilitate IOI judgments. As musical training improves motor planning, synchronization, and temporal expectancy, trained musicians respond more accurately and with less variability than musically untrained participants and this manifests in both perception and action conditions. The results reveal that perception rather than action facilitates expectancy judgments at standard durations of 621 ms (slightly unexpected). As hypothesized, musical training has an overall facilitatory effect on expectancy judgments. Applications of the paradigm are discussed.]]
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationProceedings of the 9th International Conference on Music Perception & Cognition, Bologna, 2006
    PublisherICMPC and ESCOM
    Number of pages7
    ISBN (Print)8873951554
    Publication statusPublished - 2006
    EventInternational Conference on Music Perception and Cognition -
    Duration: 23 Aug 2010 → …

    Conference

    ConferenceInternational Conference on Music Perception and Cognition
    Period23/08/10 → …

    Keywords

    • musicians
    • training of
    • perception
    • action
    • expertise
    • timing

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