Exploring how expectations influence motor learning with brain stimulation
Official title: Measuring Expectancy Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Motor Learning
Funded at Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-10667041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how thinking positively about a brain treatment called tDCS might help people learn new motor skills better, even if they don’t actually receive the treatment, and it’s designed for anyone interested in improving recovery from movement challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $437,100 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AT012088-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10667041 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals seeking rehabilitation for motor skills, particularly those who may benefit from non-invasive brain stimulation techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have motor learning challenges or those who are not interested in experimental treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on motor learning, focusing on how participants' expectations about the treatment can influence outcomes. By applying low levels of electrical current to the scalp, the study aims to determine whether higher expectations can enhance skill improvement, even in cases where no actual stimulation occurs. The research employs a double-blind methodology to ensure that neither the participants nor the researchers know who is receiving real stimulation versus a placebo, allowing for a clearer understanding of the expectancy effects. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the effectiveness of tDCS in neurorehabilitation by integrating patient perceptions into treatment protocols.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective motor learning strategies for patients undergoing neurorehabilitation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that expectancy effects can significantly influence treatment outcomes in various therapeutic contexts, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
Tempe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schaefer, Sydney Yoshie — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Schaefer, Sydney Yoshie
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.