A Method for Quantitative Evaluation of Proficiency by Using Multipoint Surface Electromyography

Abstract

Previous studies have found significant differences in muscle activity between novices and experts in various domains. However, there are few studies on quantitative evaluation methods for motor learning progress synchronized with movements. The purpose of this study was to provide a quantitative evaluation of motor learning proficiency. A device for surface electromyography with multiple points was developed. The electrodes are arranged in a grid pattern, allowing for the evaluation of a wide range of muscle activity. The experiment involved two taiko players: one inexperienced and one expert. The task was to play Japanese drums at a constant speed. Our hypothesis was that the information entropy could be reflected by efficiency of muscle activity in the unified way. Information entropy was calculated from the amplitude of each channel. Topographic maps were also plotted from the amplitudes. The results showed consistent differences between the expert and inexperienced. Expert subject had regular muscle activity, while inexperienced subject had irregular muscle activity. The study suggests that information entropy could provide a novel indicator of proficiency. The results suggest that it is possible to quantitatively evaluate the process of changing muscle activity through motor learning.