Psychology ETDs

Victor Bogo

Publication Date

1-26-1968

Abstract

The practice and transfer effects were investigated for the 2–, 4–, and 6– -choice psychological refractory phase (PRP) which was equivalent too low, intermediate and high levels of complexity, respectively. Four subjects (Ss) in each condition were practiced for fifteen ten-minute sessions (days), until all groups leveled off. Two hypotheses are tested: (a) practice effects would be significant; (b) greater transfer would occur from a higher level of complexity. Also, the empirical observation that practice effects would be differential for the three choice groups was tested. The first hypothesis was confirmed. However, transfer in the second hypothesis was greater from an intermediate to a high level of complexity. It was suggested that when initial practice is on a less complex task, which is a simplified version of the more complex task, Ss learn more relevant aspects of the task and when transferred they are better able to perform the more complex version. The expected finding of the differential practice effects for the empirical observation was supported when considering absolute amount of improvement, but when the relative rates of improvement were considered there was no support.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Frank Anderson Logan

Second Committee Member

Jacek Szafan

Third Committee Member

Peder Jack Johnson

Fourth Committee Member

Henry Carleton Ellis

Document Type

Thesis

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