Abstract
The goal of the study was to quantify error prediction processes via neural correlates in the Electroencephalogram (EEG). Access to such a neural signal will allow to gain insights into functional and temporal aspects of error perception in the course of learning. We focused on the error negativity (Ne) or error-related negativity (ERN) as a candidate index for the prediction processes. We have used a virtual goal-oriented throwing task where participants used a lever to throw a virtual ball displayed on a computer monitor with the goal of hitting a virtual target as often as possible. After one day of practice with 400 trials, participants performed another 400 trials on a second day with EEG measurement. After error trials (i.e., when the ball missed the target), we found a sharp negative deflection in the EEG peaking 250 ms after ball release (mean amplitude: t = −2.5, df = 20, p = 0.02) and another broader negative deflection following the first, reaching from about 300 ms after release until unambiguous visual knowledge of results (KR; hitting or passing by the target; mean amplitude: t = −7.5, df = 20, p < 0.001). According to shape and timing of the two deflections, we assume that the first deflection represents a predictive Ne/ERN (prediction based on efferent commands and proprioceptive feedback) while the second deflection might have arisen from action monitoring.
Highlights
Prediction plays a role at many different levels in motor control
After error trials, we found two Ne/error-related negativity (ERN) like negative deflections in the EEG signal that are discussed in light of error prediction as well as feedback processing
In error trials we found one sharp negative deflection in the EEG peaking 250 ms after ball release and another broader negative deflection reaching from about 350 ms after release until unambiguous visual knowledge of results (KR)
Summary
Prediction plays a role at many different levels in motor control. In everyday live, we constantly predict the outcome or the process of our movements. By means of electroencephalography (EEG), more concretely with event-related potentials, it is possible to observe error processing in the brain. Among these potentials, the Ne/ERN is a negative deflection in fronto-central regions that emerges with or shortly after an erroneous motor response, typically in speeded choice reaction time tasks (e.g., flanker task), prior to sensory feedback about the movement outcome such as knowledge of results (KR; Falkenstein et al, 1991; Gehring et al, 1993). Different theoretical accounts of the Ne/ERN have explained its functional significance with reference to error detection (i.e., the comparison of expected/planned and actual outcomes; Falkenstein et al, 1991), response conflict (Botvinick et al, 2001), and reinforcement learning
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.