Analogical transfer in perceptual categorization

Mem Cognit. 2012 Apr;40(3):434-49. doi: 10.3758/s13421-011-0154-4.

Abstract

Analogical transfer is the ability to transfer knowledge despite significant changes in the surface features of a problem. In categorization, analogical transfer occurs if a classification strategy learned with one set of stimuli can be transferred to a set of novel, perceptually distinct stimuli. Three experiments investigated analogical transfer in rule-based and information-integration categorization tasks. In rule-based tasks, the optimal strategy is easy to describe verbally, whereas in information-integration tasks, accuracy is maximized only if information from two or more stimulus dimensions is integrated in a way that is difficult or impossible to describe verbally. In all three experiments, analogical transfer was nearly perfect in the rule-based conditions, but no evidence for analogical transfer was found in the information-integration conditions. These results were predicted a priori by the COVIS theory of categorization.

MeSH terms

  • Association Learning
  • Contrast Sensitivity
  • Discrimination Learning*
  • Humans
  • Orientation
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual*
  • Probability Learning*
  • Problem Solving*
  • Size Perception
  • Transfer, Psychology*