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Models of the cerebellum and motor learning

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 May 2011

James C. Houk
Affiliation:
Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL 60611 Electronic mail: houk@casbah.acns.nwu.edu
Jay T. Buckingham
Affiliation:
Department of Computer Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003 Electronic mail: buckingham@cs.umass.edu
Andrew G. Barto
Affiliation:
Department of Computer Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003 Electronic mail: barto@cs.umass.edu

Abstract

This article reviews models of the cerebellum and motor learning, from the landmark papers by Marr and Albus through those of the present time. The unique architecture of the cerebellar cortex is ideally suited for pattern recognition, but how is pattern recognition incorporated into motor control and learning systems? The present analysis begins with a discussion of exactly what the cerebellar cortex needs to regulate through its anatomically defined projections to premotor networks. Next, we examine various models showing how the microcircuitry in the cerebellar cortex could be used to achieve its regulatory functions. Having thus defined what it is that Purkinje cells in the cerebellar cortex must learn, we then evaluate theories of motor learning. We examine current models of synaptic plasticity, credit assignment, and the generation of training information, indicating how they could function cooperatively to guide the processes of motor learning.

Type
Target Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1996

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