Context dependent learning in the serial RT task

Psychol Res. 2008 Jul;72(4):397-404. doi: 10.1007/s00426-007-0123-5. Epub 2007 Aug 3.

Abstract

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.

MeSH terms

  • Association Learning*
  • Attention*
  • Awareness
  • Color Perception
  • Discrimination Learning
  • Humans
  • Inhibition, Psychological
  • Orientation
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual*
  • Psychomotor Performance*
  • Reaction Time*
  • Serial Learning*