Acquisition of knowledge about spatial location: assessing the generality of the mechanism of learning

Q J Exp Psychol B. 2003 Feb;56(1):102-13. doi: 10.1080/02724990244000205.

Abstract

A selection of studies in the last 20 years is reviewed. These studies show basic Pavlovian phenomena in the spatial domain (like blocking, overshadowing, latent inhibition, and perceptual learning) with nonhuman subjects, specifically with rats, both in the radial maze and in the circular pool. The generality of these phenomena with respect to other species and to other spatial preparations is also discussed. The conclusion is that the mechanism responsible for the acquisition of knowledge about spatial location seems to be associative in nature.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Association Learning*
  • Maze Learning
  • Rats
  • Space Perception*
  • Spatial Behavior