Feedforward control

Definition

Feedforward control is a proactive mechanism in motor control that anticipates the required motor commands based on sensory information to optimize movement performance. This type of control enables the nervous system to predict and prepare for the demands of an action before it occurs, effectively reducing the lag time that might come with feedback processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feedforward control reduces the reaction time in motor tasks by allowing the brain to prepare the necessary muscle contractions in advance.
2. This control mechanism is particularly important in complex movements, such as sports or dance, where timing and precision are critical.
3. Feedforward control can be influenced by previous experiences and learned motor patterns, enhancing performance through practice.
4. Unlike feedback control, which corrects errors after a movement, feedforward control aims to prevent errors before they happen.
5. The effectiveness of feedforward control is dependent on accurate sensory information being available, such as visual cues or proprioceptive data.

Review Questions

• How does feedforward control differ from feedback control in the context of motor performance?
  • Feedforward control is proactive, allowing the nervous system to anticipate and prepare for movements based on sensory input, thus optimizing performance before an action is executed. In contrast, feedback control is reactive, relying on information from completed actions to make corrections afterward. While feedforward aims to prevent errors by predicting movement demands, feedback is essential for adjusting actions based on real-time performance outcomes.
• Discuss the role of proprioception in facilitating effective feedforward control during motor tasks.
  • Proprioception plays a vital role in feedforward control by providing the nervous system with information about body position and movement dynamics. This sensory input allows the brain to anticipate the necessary motor commands needed for smooth execution of tasks. Effective use of proprioceptive feedback enhances the ability to predict and plan movements, which is essential for activities requiring precision and timing.
• Evaluate the impact of practice on feedforward control mechanisms and overall motor learning.
  • Practice significantly enhances feedforward control mechanisms by allowing individuals to develop more refined motor plans based on past experiences. As one practices a skill, their brain becomes better at predicting the required movements, resulting in quicker reaction times and reduced errors during execution. This leads to improved performance as learned motor patterns are established, demonstrating how practice directly contributes to more effective feedforward processes in motor learning.

Related terms

Feedback Control: A reactive system that relies on sensory feedback to adjust movements after they have occurred, ensuring accuracy and correction of errors.

Motor Planning: The cognitive process that involves creating a sequence of movements or actions needed to achieve a specific goal, crucial for effective feedforward control.

Proprioception: The body's ability to sense its position and movement in space, providing critical information for both feedforward and feedback control.