The relationship between pattern area and pattern discrimination learning was explored. The possibly confounding effects of pattern spacing, height, contiguity, and manipulation were removed or controlled by: (a) presenting illuminated .25-, 1-, and 4-sq. in. patterns in a totally dark room, (b) alternating correct and incorrect patterns in a randomly determined temporal succession, (c) equating pattern height for all pattern-area conditions, (d) prohibiting pattern manipulation. Increasing pattern height from 1 to 4 sq. in. still resulted in improved learning. Results were interpreted in terms of utilization of brightness and/or size differences as cues to pattern discrimination.
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