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Abstract

In an extended replication of a study by Bahrick (1957), Ss were instructed to learn a serial list of nonsense syllables each of which was enclosed in a form. Depending upon the treatment group, Ss either had one trial or trials were repeated until either 25%, 50%, 100%, 150%, or 200% serial learning was attained. 6 groups of 10 Ss each were told to learn the forms in preparation for a rest (Int), 6 groups of 15 Ss were given no form-instructions but included self-instructing Ss (Inc–1), and 6 groups of 10 Ss were given no form-instructions and excluded Ss who admitted trying to learn the forms (Inc–2). Results similar to Bahrick's were found for the Inc–1 groups and appeared to be attributable to self-instructing Ss. With incidental instructions, the forms recognized were independent of previously learned syllables.

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Incidental Learning as a Function of Degree of Intentional Learning

Abstract

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References