Date of Award
5-9-2024
Publication Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.Sc.
Department
Biological Sciences
Keywords
Consciousness;Explicit learning;Implicit learning;Learning and memory;Rattus Norvegicus;Serial Reaction Time Task
Supervisor
Jerome Cohen
Abstract
This thesis examines rat learning of patterns, considering two theories: one emphasizing associative learning, the other rule-encoded learning. Instead of favoring either, the study focuses on intentional (conscious) and unintentional (unconscious) learning in both simple and second-order patterns, where the latter contains simpler patterns. In contrast to prior research, no corrections were applied, allowing rats to make unrestricted mistakes. Response times and accuracy were measured in one attempt (median for error-free responses) and two attempts (median for responses with or without a mistake). Findings reveal that errors in simple patterns affect performance, leading to longer response times and increased inaccuracies when subjects attend to mistakes. However, for second-order patterns, errors do not significantly impair performance, possibly due to delayed responses after reinforcement. Consequently, the thesis concludes that rats incidentally remember simple patterns, but understanding their incidental memory in second-order patterns necessitates refined methodology. This study serves as a pilot for future investigations into rats' conscious engagement with serial patterns.
Recommended Citation
Shastri, Dhanraj, "Rats’ Acquisition of Incidental Redundant Information While Performing an Explicit, Free-operant Signal Tracking Task" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 9460.
https://scholar.uwindsor.ca/etd/9460