Characterising neuroplasticity stimulated by covert practice and the nature of learning through covert practice

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We usually learn and maintain a motor skill through physical practice. Yet, we can also learn through covert practice. One form of covert practice is called motor imagery, and is when we imagine performing a movement without actually moving. Another form of covert practice is called action observation, and is when we watch someone else perform a movement. To date we know a lot about how the brain works to support physical practice, and how this translates to learning, but this is not true for motor imagery or action observation. If we know how these forms of practice work, we can use them more effectively to help people learn new movements (e.g. sports, surgical skills, and/or in settings where physical practice is limited or not desired, such as following physical or neurological injury). The long term-goal of my research program is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the neural and behavioural mechanisms that underlie covert practice, and to develop tools that influence their use for learning. My five-year research program will expand our understanding of how learning through motor imagery differs from action observation via two short-term objectives. This research program will train 3 MS, 2 MS-PhD-track, and 1 PhD, with assistance from 7 undergraduates (honours). First, we will test what parts of a skill are learned when we practice through motor imagery and action observation. People will learn a movement via each form of practice and then they will be tested in different ways. These types of tests allow us to assess the parts of the skill that were learned. We will also evaluate how key brain regions interact during each form of practice. We will measure these interactions using special equipment that allows us to capture the direct influence one brain region has on another; an approach not yet done. Second, we will explore how learning through both forms of covert practice is influenced by expertise. Experts and novices of a skill will perform motor imagery and action observation. We will again measure how brain regions interact, and explore how learning through covert practice occurs across different skill levels. This research will allow us to test our hypothesis that learning occurs differently through each form of covert practice (in contrast to the prevalent theory). Specifically, we will show that distinct mechanisms underlie each form of covert practice, and that subsequent learning changes with expertise. We need this fundamental knowledge so that we can understand the best way to use motor imagery and action observation to help with skill learning. Overall, this research will provide unique opportunities for HQP to be trained in a blend of brain and behavioural techniques that are in high demand in numerous sectors (healthcare, academia, industry). This knowledge will make motor learning better in a wide range of areas that will ultimately have a positive impact on the everyday life and performance of Canadians.