Off-line learning of motor skill memory: a double dissociation of goal and movement

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2005 Dec 13;102(50):18237-41. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0506072102. Epub 2005 Dec 5.

Abstract

Acquiring a new skill requires learning multiple aspects of a task simultaneously. For example, learning a piano sonata requires learning the musical notes and being able to implement this goal by learning the appropriate sequence of finger movements. After practice, skill continues to develop off-line during a period of consolidation. Here we show that different aspects of a procedural memory are processed separately during consolidation: Only the movement sequence is enhanced over the day; whereas only the goal is enhanced over a night of sleep. This double dissociation suggests that distinct systems, enhancing different aspects of a procedural memory, support improvements during consolidation. Consolidation is not a single process; instead, there are multiple routes to off-line learning, and the engagement of these distinct mechanisms is determined by when consolidation takes place.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Female
  • Goals*
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology*
  • Male
  • Memory / physiology*
  • Mental Recall / physiology
  • Motor Skills / physiology*
  • Psychomotor Performance / physiology*
  • Sleep / physiology
  • Time Factors