An analysis and theoretical development of mental learning curves

Date

2004-08

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Texas Tech University

Abstract

This study investigated how human mental learning reaches an asymptotic state at an acceptable performance level. The mental learning model may encompass multiple factors not previously revealed, including threshold learning. Numerous studies have explored the physical and psychological aspects of human learning. Several components of learning have been identified, including time, accuracy, individual differences, and fatigue. Furthermore, previous findings have shown a relationship between time and errors, or time and quantity production as s-shaped curves. However, previous learning curve research concentrated more on skill learning or maze learning. Few studies evaluated detailed human mental learning or strategic information processing. In particular, these studies did not explicitly evaluate mental learning in terms of "threshold overcome," which possibly indicates an initial change in speed of the rate of learning.

The study was inductive research comprising designs of one exploratory and two confirmatory experimental sessions (a monochrome puzzle and a typical-image puzzle) with repeated within-subject easures. Computer-based jigsaw puzzles were employed to explore constructs of mental learning, including the rate of learning, strategic utilization, and errors. Mathematical mental learning models and strategy information processing also were examined. A total of 125 participants were recruited. Participants with color vision deficiency were dismissed. Learning phenomenon was ascertained over the three experiments and completion times in puzzle-solving tasks were considerably reduced after four repetitions. Threshold learning did not exist in this study while learning models demonstrated a power function. The feature of puzzle edges and the memorization function were the two most adopted approaches. No significant error eduction was found in the two confirmatory sessions.

Description

Keywords

Learning models, Learning curve, Thought and thinking, Cognitive styles, Pattern perception

Citation