Time scales in motor learning and development

A theoretical framework based on the concepts and tools of nonlinear dynami cal systems is advanced to account for both the persistent and transitory c hanges traditionally shown for the learning and development of motor skills . The multiple lime scales of change in task outcome over time are interpre ted as originating from the system's trajectory on an evolving attractor la ndscape. Different bifurcations between attractor organizations and transie nt phenomena can lead to exponential, power law, or S-shaped learning curve s. This unified dynamical account of the Functions and time scales in motor learning and development offers several new hypotheses for future research on the nature of change in learning theory.