Performance vs. learning curves: what is motor learning and how is it measured?

Excerpt

In their recent study entitled “Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of the Learning Curve of a Simulated Surgical Task on the da Vinci System,” Hernandez et al. [1] propose “to delineate the learning curve for a robotic task in a bench model and to compare inexperienced and experienced general surgeons on the da Vinci system.” Though this study undoubtedly makes significant contributions to our understanding of the role of robotic telemanipulation systems as solutions to some of the problems of impaired dexterity and visual constraints encountered in minimally invasive surgery, it does not actually fulfill its stated purpose of delineating a learning curve. Consequently, we may use this study to clarify the important, and perhaps most misunderstood, concept in surgical education: the concept of a “learning curve.” …