Transfer of predifferentiation training in simple and multiple shape discrimination.

Abstract

Two exptl. tests are reported of the hypothesis that verbal pretraining would result in a change in the speed and accuracy of shape discrimination. In each expt. 1 group was given verbal pretraining on the nonsense shapes to be discriminated later; 1 group was given the same training on a different set of shapes; a 3rd group was given no pretraining. In expt. I the discrimination task consisted of distinguishing the learned shapes from a standard shape by responding "Same" or "Different." In expt. II the 5 learned shapes were exposed singly in a tachistoscope, the subject was required to indicate which shape has appeared. Results showed no significant differences in discrimination performance between any of the groups in either expt. There was a suggestion that the predifferentiation effect might appear if more intensive pretraining were given.