Implicit Adaptation is Fast, Robust and Independent from Explicit Adaptation

Abstract

During classical visuomotor adaptation, the implicit process is believed to emerge rather slowly; however, recent evidence has found this may not be true. Here, we further quantify the time-course of implicit learning in response to diverse feedback types, rotation magnitudes, feedback timing delays, and the role of continuous aiming on implicit learning. We find that implicit learning unfolds at a higher rate than conventionally expected in all feedback conditions. Increasing rotation size not only raises asymptotes, but also generally heightens explicit awareness, with no discernible difference in implicit rates. Cursor-jump and terminal feedback, with or without delays, predominantly enhance explicit adaptation while slightly diminishing the extent or the speed of implicit adaptation. In a continuous aiming reports condition, there is no discernible impact on implicit adaptation, and implicit and explicit adaptation progress at indistinguishable speeds. Finally, investigating the assumed negative correlation as an indicator of additivity of implicit and explicit processes, we observe weak associations at best across conditions. Our observation of implicit learning early in training in all tested conditions signifies how fast and robust our innate adaptation system is.