Learning to perceive in the sensorimotor approach: Piaget's theory of equilibration interpreted dynamically

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Science
• Developmental Psychology
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• The sensorimotor approach posits perception relies on mastering sensorimotor contingencies (SMCs).
• Existing sensorimotor theories lack an explicit account of perceptual learning, especially for novel stimuli.
• Human learning is open-ended, posing a challenge for understanding perception acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose Piaget's theory of equilibration as a framework for perceptual learning within the sensorimotor approach.
• To provide a dynamical formalization of equilibration for a micro-genetic account of sensorimotor learning.
• To explore principles for open-ended sensorimotor learning and its implications.

Main Methods:

• Integrating Piaget's theory of equilibration with the sensorimotor approach.
• Developing a dynamical formalization of equilibration.
• Analyzing sensorimotor learning through a micro-genetic lens.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated compatibility between Piaget's theory and the sensorimotor approach.
• Provided a formal model for understanding sensorimotor learning and perceptual acquisition.
• Identified key principles for open-ended learning, including intrinsic normative evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Piaget's equilibration offers a robust mechanism for perceptual learning within the sensorimotor framework.
• The micro-genetic account clarifies how novel perceptions emerge through skill refinement.
• This integration provides insights into adaptive, agent-driven learning processes.