Understanding Variability in Practice

Variability in practice is crucial for enhancing motor learning, and it can be achieved through different means. The main categories include numerosity, where the number of different conditions is varied, and heterogeneity, which addresses the extent of differences between those conditions. For instance, when teaching a novice tennis player to serve, increasing the locations from which they serve exemplifies numerosity, while serving from wider distances illustrates heterogeneity. The research highlights the need for further exploration into these categories, suggesting that understanding the nuances can lead to better practice designs that optimize skill acquisition.