Effects of Serial Learning on Recognition Thresholds

Abstract

Different groups of Ss were given various amounts of practice on a serial list of nonsense syllables. The usual bow-shaped curve of correct anticipations as a function of serial position was obtained. The syllables were then exposed in a tachistoscope and their recognition thresholds were determined by the method of constant stimuli. Analysis of variance of the probabilities of correct recognition as a function of frequency, serial position, and stimulus duration indicated stimulus duration was the only significant determiner of the probabilities. The usual threshold-frequency relationship was not observed.