The frequency response of skilled subjects in a pursuit tracking task.

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Abstract
The efficiency of highly skilled subjects (Ss) in tracking a target which moves in a simple harmonic motion pattern, as measured by root-mean-squared error and by time on target within 5% of the target amplitude, decreased steadily as input frequency was increased. Examination of objective scores and analysis of graphic records of the problem input, S''s output, and tracking error indicate that 5 types of changes in motor behavior contribute to the decrease in performance proficiency: (a) variability in phase relations between stimulus and response, (b) variability of output amplitude, (c) variability in the point of termination of successive flexor or of extensor movements, (d) a constant error in matching response amplitude to the average input amplitude, and (e) loss of synchronization between output and input frequencies, i.e., periods during which the output frequency was independent of the input frequency. During short periods of loss of synchronization the output frequency might be either higher or lower than the input frequency. The last of the above factors operates only at the higher input frequencies. The other 4 factors tend to increase steadily in importance as input frequencies increase, although variability in the point of termination of successive extensor and flexor movements tends to reach a maximum at an 150-180 cpm input frequency range. The above factors were present for each S, although there were marked individual differences in the relative influence of the several factors at the various frequencies. These changes in performance are interpreted in relation to the hypothesis that man puts out a patterned response which he predicts will match the stimulus pattern, observes the outcome during a sampling period, and intermittently changes his output pattern.
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