State Dependent LearningMarch 18, 2013

Denny, Adam

Defined

• encoding the memory with the environment so that when recalling takes place, it is more probable that the same environment will produce higher recall

• State dependent learning is also known as encoding specificity

Graphed for Simplicity

Environment

Answer/Output

Subject/Question+

Underwater Verses Ground Learning

Underwater Verses Ground LearningLandWater

The Gentle Awakening

• Later, some subjects were tested immediately upon wakening.

• Others were tested later in the day when they were more awake.

• Those that had been tested right after wake up had a higher response rate.

Classroom Swap

• Students at Universities were taught in a classroom

• Students were split into two groups and half were sent to take the test in another classroom

• Those that took the test in the other classroom did not do as well as those that tested in the same classroom

Military Relationship

• Basis for “train as you fight”

• Whatever you learn in one environment is going to illicit that response

• Field training/ Classroom training

Summary

• Environment + Information = recall• This is called State dependent learning

• Underwater verses ground learning• The Gentle Awakening• Classroom Swap

• Military Uses• Field exercises• Training Courses (Classroom)

Where to Study?

???

• Something to think about: Internal environment such as Drug levels

• what are you on when you learn, verses what are you on when you test (caffeine, nicotine, nutrition?)

• Any Questions??