Nature of task

is determined by spatial and temporal aspects of regulatory conditions in the environment.

• environment: supporting surfaces, people, objects
• spatial: size and location of objects
• temporal: movement of objects

modified from Gentile (2000, Table 3-1, p. 125)

		spatial aspects
		environment consistent between trials	environment inconsistent between trials
temporal aspects	environment in motion between trials	consistent motion tasks	open tasks
	environment stationary between trials	closed tasks	variable motionless tasks

Sources:

Gentile, A. (2000). Skill acquisition: Action, movement, and neuromotor processes. In: Carr, J., & Shepherd, R. Movement science: Foundations for physical therapy in rehabilitation . (2nd ed.). Gaithersburg, MD: Aspen.

Jarus, T. (1994). Motor learning and occupational therapy: The organization of practice. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 48, 810-816.

Poole, J.L. (1991). Application of motor learning principles in occupational therapy. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 45, 531-537.

Sabari, J.S. (1991). Motor learning concepts applied to activity-based intervention with adults with hemiplegia. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 45, 523-530.

---

Last updated 11-26-01 ©Dave Thompson PT
return to Nature of the task
return to Motor teaching and motor learning