Perceptual learning of complex patterns

Abstract

Practice improves sensory perception, a phenomenon known as perceptual learning. Perceptual learning is interesting because it reflects plasticity in the brain where none was imagined, and because of its enormous applied potential. In vision, learning of simple discriminations is well-described. Here, I study the learning of two complex visual tasks, texture-and face identification, using a ten-alternative forced-choice procedure. The data are clear: learning of complex patterns is much like learning of simple patterns in its specificity, stability and time-course. Therefore, learning obeys similar rules at several levels in visual processing. The characteristics of learning, in particular the specificity and stability of learning, affect inherent aspects of object recognition.