STIMULUS-ORGANISM-RESPONSE (S-O-R) INTERACTION EFFECTS OF THE SIGN LEARNING THEORY IN ACHIEVING MOTOR OUTCOMES

Abstract

Improving performance has always been a core issue in athletics and other fields. The development of diverse learning theories to explain behavior has led to the adoption of several techniques for performance enhancement. The sign learning theory also holds secrets that could be exploited in accomplishing motor tasks. The several experiments conducted by Tolman and his allegiants led him to postulate certain principles which have proven over the years to be applicable not only in animals but also in man. However, empirical research is insufficient as regards the application of the sign learning theory to motor learning especially given the fact that all of Tolman’s experiments were carried out on animals. This paper seeks to precipitate the areas of importance that prove to be relevant in influencing motor outcomes through a systematic review of the principles and observations contained in the sign learning theory and how they affect and alter motor outcomes.This will providea bedrock for the inferences drawn to be empirically tested on human sum-objects and as a result, push the boundaries of human performance.

Keywords: Stimulus-Organism-Response, Sign learning theory, motor outcomes