Active perceptual learning involves motor exploration and predictive sensory integration

Abstract

AbstractOur ability to perceive both externally generated and self-generated sensory stimuli can be enhanced through training, known as passive and active perceptual learning. While passive perceptual learning involves the functional and structural reorganization of the nervous system, the mechanisms underlying active perceptual learning are poorly understood. Here, we sought to explore it through active haptic training (AHT), which has been demonstrated to enhance the somatosensory perception of finger movements in piano keystrokes. We found four main findings. First, AHT reorganized the muscular coordination pattern during the piano keystroke. Second, AHT increased the relative reliance on afferent sensory information relative to predicted one. Third, perceptual sensitivity of externally generated keystroke motions remained unchanged through AHT. Finally, AHT improved feedback movement control of keystrokes. These results suggest that active perceptual learning involves active exploration and adaptation of predictive sensory integration, which underlie enhancement specifically of active perception and feedback control of movements.