The effect of spatial contiguity on discrimination learning by rhesus monkeys.

Abstract

Four monkeys were trained on a discrimination problem with 0, 1, 2, and 4 in. of vertical seperation between the differential stimuli and the locus of response. Sixty-four trials were given each day for 20 days. An inverse relationship was found between magnitude of spatial separation and efficiency of performance. The relative disparity among conditions of separation decreased with training, all curves approaching asymptotes at levels above 90% correct responses. These results suggest that spatial contiguity between stimulus and response or between stimulus and reward is an important factor affecting efficiency of learning. The bearing of this finding upon apparatus design is discussed.