In this section
@article{Nardi:2026:10.1016/j.isci.2026.117523,
author = {Nardi, F and Arora, A and Faisal, A and Haar, S},
doi = {10.1016/j.isci.2026.117523},
journal = {iScience},
title = {Isolating error-based and reward-based learning in a real-world task via gradual perturbations in embodied VR},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2026.117523},
volume = {29},
year = {2026}
}
TY - JOUR
AB - Error-based and reward-based mechanisms act together in real-world motor learning. Lab tasks separate them by manipulating feedback, but we previously showed that in a real world task the correction of a large error is rewarding in itself, and engages reward-based learning even without a reward signal. Here we asked whether they separate when errors are kept small. We used embodied virtual reality of pool billiards, in which the visual scene is aligned with a physical table, and rotated the cue ball’s seen trajectory gradually while haptics and proprioception stayed unchanged. Thirty-two participants played two sessions, learning the same rotation with error-only feedback in one and reward-only feedback in the other. Their exploration after failed shots, and their post-movement beta rebound over the motor cortex, differed between sessions. Gradual perturbations can therefore isolate the two mechanisms in a real-world task, and open a way to target them in rehabilitation and skill training.
AU - Nardi,F
AU - Arora,A
AU - Faisal,A
AU - Haar,S
DO - 10.1016/j.isci.2026.117523
PY - 2026///
SN - 2589-0042
TI - Isolating error-based and reward-based learning in a real-world task via gradual perturbations in embodied VR
T2 - iScience
UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2026.117523
VL - 29
ER -