Abstract
The differential outcomes effect is a phenomenon where use of a choice-unique outcome for each type of correct choice in a conditional discrimination task increases rate of learning and overall accuracy, as compared to the traditional use of a single, common outcome for all types of correct choices. This phenomenon was successfully demonstrated here in college students (p <.05) using differing immediate sensory outcomes rather than the usual rewards that have obvious hedonic values. Further, a unique version of a concurrent-task, within-subjects design, rather than the typical between-subjects design, was employed. Applications of this effect using sensory outcomes in education and training are discussed.
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This research was supported in part by the Overseas Graduate Scholarship, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, made to Leh Woon Mok and in part by the Center for Cognitive Sciences, University of Minnesota.
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Mok, L.W., Overmier, J.B. The Differential Outcomes Effect in Normal Human Adults Using a Concurrent-Task Within-Subjects Design And Sensory Outcomes. Psychol Rec 57, 187–200 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03395571
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03395571