Systematic Strategies and Transfer Effects with Mixed- and Unmixed-List Designs

Abstract

The present study investigated performance on AB-AB' and AB-ABr paradigm items under mixed list (ML) and unmixed list (UL) conditions. In ML 2 different subsets of second-list items each represented a different type of paradigm, while in UL second-list pairs were homogeneous with respect to type of paradigm. 4 groups of 24 Ss each learned 2 lists of 2-syllable adjectives. First-list items were arranged so as to provide AB-AB' UL, AB-ABr UL and 2 ML conditions. Number of correct responses and trials to criterion measures showed markedly superior performance on AB-ABr items under ML. Early training performance was significantly better for AB-AB' pairs under UL than under ML. The results were viewed as inconsistent with predictions based on a priori assumptions concerning the use of cognitive mediational strategies in transfer tasks. The possible influence of intralist associative factors in ML vs UL transfer effects was discussed.

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