Extrinsic feedback from a feedback device promotes the learning of range of motion measurements.
Kazunori Akizuki, Kaho Mitamura, Ryohei Yamamoto and 2 others
PMID 32158073WHAT IT FOUND
Students who received real-time error feedback from a device while practicing knee range of motion measurements became significantly more accurate than those who practiced without it.
This accuracy gain persisted 24 hours later, suggesting devices can speed up skill acquisition.
Key findings
01The group receiving feedback improved their measurement error rate significantly more than the control group.
02The feedback group had significantly smaller measurement errors in the final practice block compared to the non-feedback group.
03The control group improved their measurement speed significantly more than the feedback group.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The study did not calculate sample size beforehand, so the results may be unstable. Only knee flexion was tested; it is unknown if this feedback method works for other joints. The feedback device used was specialized laboratory equipment that is difficult to use in standard clinical or educational settings. The study used students, not experienced clinicians, so it addresses skill acquisition rather than maintenance of existing skills. The non-feedback group worsened in accuracy over time, which may reflect a lack of motivation or attention rather than just a lack of feedback.
Declared interests
The authors report no conflict of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume this proves that instructor verbal feedback is ineffective. The control group received no feedback at all, not even from an instructor. The study only shows that objective device feedback is better than no feedback for learning accuracy.