Force field learning paradigms often start with baseline, unperturbed trials when a subject holds on a robotic device and does reaching movements. Then, in a block of trials, the robot applies a perturbation, e.g. a force field that deviates the hand trajectory sideways and proportional to the reaching velocity. Initial errors are made and gradually disappear. In that phase, we can estimate learning rate. Finally, in a last set of trials, the robot is passive and the subject still expects a force field. Since there is none, he makes errors in the other direction before converging back to a normal, error-free behaviour. In that last phase, we can measure the washout phase.

My basic question is: does a subject who learns slowly also forgets slowly? Is there any published work related to that question?

Thanks !!