An analysis of response, direction, and place learning in an open field and T maze.
Rats were trained to locate food in a response, direction, or place problem on an open field located at 2 positions. In Experiment 1, both the response and direction groups solved the problem. The place group failed to solve the task in approximately 300 trials. Experiment 2 demonstrated that rats need distinguishable start points to solve a place problem when neither a response nor a direction solution is available. Findings from Experiment 3 suggest that a combination of path traveled and distinct cues help to differentiate start points. Experiment 4 replicated the findings using a T maze. These results suggest "place" solutions are difficult for rats. The data are discussed with respect to conditional learning and modern spatial mapping theory.
Skinner
Darlene M
DM
Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, A1B 3X9, Canada. skinner@play.psych.mun.ca
Etchegary
Cheryl M
CM
Ekert-Maret
Elysia C
EC
Baker
Colleen J
CJ
Harley
Carolyn W
CW
Evans
John H
JH
Martin
Gerard M
GM
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000818:Animals; D001245:Association Learning; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003216:Conditioning, Operant; D003463:Cues; D004193:Discrimination Learning; D008297:Male; D018782:Maze Learning; D009949:Orientation; D051381:Rats; D020318:Rats, Long-Evans; D013028:Space Perception; D013037:Spatial Behavior