Effect of delay of knowledge of results on learning a motor task.

Abstract

The effect of delaying reward on the learning of a motor task by human Ss was investigated. The task required Ss to draw a 3-in. line while blindfolded. The information concerning the accuracy of the line was delayed for 0, 10, 20, and 30 sec. in four different experimental groups. No information was given to Ss in the control group. The results indicate that increasing the length of the delay interval reduced the rate of learning. A delay up to 30 sec. was found to be superior to no information.