Non-instructed Motor Skill Learning in Monkeys: Insights from Deep Reinforcement Learning Models
摘要
We employ Reinforcement Learning (RL) models to unravel the mechanisms behind the learning behavior of two macaque monkeys engaged in a free-moving multi-target reaching task. The study was conducted using computer simulations reflecting the animal’s learning conditions, and compared with the actual arm movements recorded on two macaque monkeys on a Kinarm apparatus. Our paper thus provides important insights for the design of motor control learning systems, combining end-effector control design with the learning of motor chunks associations. Our research is of interest for the modeling and understanding of natural motor learning systems, but also heads toward the design of more “brain-inspired” adaptive robotic manipulators.