Paired-associate learning and the timing of arousal.

Abstract

In a paired-associate [human] learning experiment, 75-db. white noise during presentation of stimulus and response terms in training trials significantly increased recall in a test trial held 1 day later. White noise after the response made no significant difference, and there was no significant interaction. White noise produced no effects on anticipations during training or on a test held immediately after training trials. The results are discussed with reference to 4 kinds of hypotheses regarding the relations between arousal and reinforcement and to the possible outcomes of interaction between short-term detrimental effects of arousal on performance and durable facilitatory effects of arousal on learning.