Context dependent learning in the serial RT task.
This study investigated the development of contextual dependencies for sequential perceptual-motor learning on static features in the learning environment. In three experiments we assessed the effect of manipulating task irrelevant static context features in a serial reaction-time task. Experiment 1 demonstrated impaired performance after simultaneously changing display color, placeholder shape, and placeholder location. Experiment 2 showed that this effect was mainly caused by changing placeholder shape. Finally, Experiment 3 indicated that changing context affected both the application of sequence knowledge and the selection of individual responses. It is proposed either that incidental stimulus features are integrated with a global sequence representation, or that the changed context causes participants to strategically inhibit sequence skills.
Cognitive Psychology and Ergonomics, Faculty of Behavioral Sciences, Universiteit Twente, Postbus 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands. e.l.abrahamse@gw.utwente.nl
Elger L
EL
Abrahamse
Willem B
WB
Verwey
D001245:Association Learning; D001288:Attention; D001364:Awareness; D003118:Color Perception; D004193:Discrimination Learning; D006801:Humans; D007266:Inhibition, Psychological; D009949:Orientation; D010364:Pattern Recognition, Visual; D011597:Psychomotor Performance; D011930:Reaction Time; D012691:Serial Learning