Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
08:05
Measuring Statistical Learning Across Modalities and Domains in School-Aged Children Via an Online Platform and Neuroimaging Techniques
Published on: June 30, 2020
Perceptual load improves the expression but not learning of relevant sequence information
Natacha Deroost1, Daphné Coomans, Eric Soetens
1Department of Cognitive and Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium. Natacha.Deroost@vub.ac.be
Experimental Psychology
|March 6, 2009
Summary
Sequence learning improves with higher perceptual load, suggesting cognitive systems adapt to attentional demands. However, this sequence learning appears independent of input attention when tested without distractors.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Attention Studies
- Learning and Memory
Background:
- Perceptual load theory posits that attention is allocated to processing until capacity is reached.
- Previous research suggests sequence learning may be influenced by attentional demands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if sequence learning is resistant to variations in perceptual load.
- To examine the relationship between attentional demands and incidental sequence learning.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted using incidental learning paradigms.
- Participants learned sequences of targets amidst distractors under varying perceptual load conditions (high vs. low).
- Sequence learning was assessed under different attentional load conditions during training and testing.
Main Results:
- Sequence learning expression significantly improved under high perceptual load compared to low load conditions.
- Sequence learning was unaffected by perceptual load when tested without distractors or under reversed load conditions.
- Findings suggest sequence learning may operate independently of input attention.
Conclusions:
- The cognitive system may enhance response-based sequence learning to manage high perceptual load.
- Sequence learning is not influenced by increased selection demands and appears independent of input attention.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Associative Learning
Associative learning is a fundamental concept in behavioral psychology, wherein a connection is established between two stimuli or events, leading to a learned response. This process is critical in understanding how behaviors are acquired and modified. Conditioning, the mechanism through which associations are formed, can be divided into two main types: classical conditioning and operant conditioning, each elucidating different aspects of associative learning.
Classical conditioning, also known...
Classical conditioning, also known...
01:22Chunking and Rehearsal in Sensory Memory
Improving short-term memory can be achieved through techniques like chunking and rehearsal. Chunking involves organizing information into larger, more manageable units. This technique is particularly useful for information that exceeds the typical memory span of between five and nine items. For instance, logging into an online account with a password like "ta89vq0179gz" involves grouping letters and numbers into three chunks—ta89, vq01, and 79gz. It makes large amounts of information more...
01:22Purposive Learning
E. C. Tolman emphasized the purposiveness of behavior — the idea that much of our behavior is goal-directed. For instance, employees who aim for a promotion work diligently to meet their targets. Tolman argued that when classical conditioning and operant conditioning occur, the organism acquires certain expectations. In classical conditioning, a child might fear a dog because they expect it to bite. In operant conditioning, a person might consistently work overtime because they expect a bonus...
01:26Higher Mental Functions of Brain: Learning and Memory
Memory is one of the most vital higher mental functions of the brain. Memory is closely related to learning because it enables us to retain information and experiences from our past to use them in our present life. It also helps us to remember facts, events, and skills, such as riding a bike or swimming. There are two types of memory — declarative memory, which involves memorizing facts or events, and procedural memory, which enables us to remember how to do something like writing or playing an...
01:25Factors Affecting Perception
Perception is influenced by perceptual set, context, motivation, and emotion. Perceptual set, or perceptual expectancy, refers to the tendency to perceive things in a particular way, influenced by previous experiences and expectations. This phenomenon affects the interpretation of stimuli, creating a set of mental tendencies and assumptions that impact sensory perceptions of sound, taste, touch, and sight.
An illustrative example of a perceptual set is the scenario where an airline pilot told...
An illustrative example of a perceptual set is the scenario where an airline pilot told...
01:21Cognitive Learning
Cognitive learning is based on purposive behavior, incidental learning, and insight learning.
E. C. Tolman's theory of purposive behavior emphasizes that much behavior is goal-directed. He argued that to understand behavior, we must look at the entire sequence of actions leading to a goal. For instance, high school students study hard, not just due to past reinforcement but also to achieve the goal of getting into a good college.
Tolman introduced the idea that behavior is influenced by...
E. C. Tolman's theory of purposive behavior emphasizes that much behavior is goal-directed. He argued that to understand behavior, we must look at the entire sequence of actions leading to a goal. For instance, high school students study hard, not just due to past reinforcement but also to achieve the goal of getting into a good college.
Tolman introduced the idea that behavior is influenced by...