An examination of extrinsic feedback use during patient rehabiliation

Abstract

Purpose:To examine therapists' use of extrinsic feedback (KR, KP) in rehabilitation settings and determine its consistency with motor learning literature; and second, to explore differences between perceived and actual feedback use. Participants: Therapists (n=6) practicing in a private clinic with a minimum of one year of clinical experience. Patients (n=15) receiving active therapy within a private clinic. Procedures: Two researchers observed 15 randomized active therapy appointments. Participants were blinded to the purpose of the study. Characteristics of feedback provided by therapists were documented. Therapists completed surveys regarding perceptions of personal feedback use. Statistical Analyses: Spearman rho's correlation determined inter-rater reliability. Differences between therapists' perceived and actual feedback use was examined using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test. Extrinsic feedback characteristics were examined through mixed factorial ANOVAs. Results: The use of KR and terminal feedback was over-estimated by therapists, while the use of concurrent feedback was under-estimated. Motivational feedback was provided more often than KP and KR, while KP was provided more than KR. Concurrent feedback was used more often than terminal feedback. No differences were found between distinct and accumulated feedback use. Conclusion: Therapists must be encouraged to use feedback principles that promote development and maintenance (i.e., learning) of motor skills.

Acknowledgments: Ontario Graduate Scholarship