The dynamics of spatial anticipation in pigeons and rats

摘要: The analysis of the pre-choice behaviors in an operant conditioning task led to observation that pigeons often produced anticipatory pecks were directed at location their next response. Despite possible utility this behavior for understanding basic behavioral processes animal learning and widespread use touchscreen displays present pictorial stimuli, there has been little evaluation spatial distribution responding. So, we sought investigate mechanisms account behavior, whether changes over time, how general phenomenon might be. To answer these other related questions, report a series eleven studies two re-analyzed datasets detailed characterization discrimination both rats. In first chapter, review relevant literature prospective coding. second outline three-link paradigm, which adapted from procedure originally developed study anticipation autoshaping. This simple afforded us ability measure responses during engages processing. third evaluate mechanistic explanations behavior; namely, animals are motivated produce because shorter temporal route reinforcement or contiguity stimuli used task. fourth several parameters importantly influence responses. fifth re-evaluate data previously published projects assess generality