Introduction
• Reflex and voluntary movements are sensorimotor transformations.
– Feedforward vs. feedback control.
• Reflex control differs from voluntary control
– Spatial organization of reflexes reflects hard-wired connections vs.
behavioral demands and context: decisions. Voluntary movements
are organized to be appropriate to address behavioral goal: kinematic
vs. dynamic transformations - internal models.
– Reflex latency & duration reflect mainly fixed neuromuscular
constraints: conduction, transmission, contraction. These, also
influence timing of voluntary movement, but information processing
and accuracy constraints are the critical reaction time and movement
duration.
– Neural organization of voluntary movements is highly dependent on
learning and plasticity. Adaptability is critical over long term.