The utility of the transverse patterning task as a measure of configural learning in a college sample

This study examined the transverse patterning task, a three-phase problem developed to explore deficits in configural learning. Phases 1 and 2 of transverse patterning require elemental associations to solve the task, whereas Phase 3 requires a configural association. One hundred and sixteen college participants completed four tasks: transverse patterning, free recall memory, recognition memory, and mental rotation. Results indicated that approximately 75% of participants successfully completed all three phases of the transverse patterning task. Further, the number of trials required to meet criterion on Phases 1 and 2 significantly differed from the number of trials needed to meet criterion for Phase 3. Transverse patterning was correlated with the mental rotation, but not to either of the memory tasks; the memory tasks were significantly correlated with one another. Findings suggest that this version of transverse patterning shows promise for use in future studies.