Trial-and-error shape–color associative learning task scored with Signal Detection Theory d'¶
Design · All designs
Evidence · 2 claims (2 for) · 1 study (1 associational),q3· 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study
Description¶
A computerized associative learning task in which 12 abstract two-dimensional shapes had to be associated with one of four colors through trial-and-error feedback, with yes/no responses to target or lure color-shape pairings. Performance is scored with the Signal Detection Theory index d', which the authors chose because it "allows us to assess the impact of attentional processes on perceptual sensitivity" while minimizing response bias. The task was designed to avoid ceiling effects in non-clinical populations and permits SDT indices over classical behavioral measures.
Design Implications¶
Context¶
Requirements¶
- Difficulty must be calibrated to the sample population; associations count as learned once responses within the last 48 trials exceed 95% correct
Constraints¶
- The task was demanding: 19 participants failed to reach the criterion within the 504-trial maximum
- The task may exhibit a directional response bias; the authors suggest a counterbalanced response-button design could mitigate this
Target Learners¶
- young healthy adults (18–32 years)
Learning Goals¶
- associative learning of shape–color pairings
Claims¶
- Large Individual Differences Associative Learning Task [+M]
- P1 Topography Precuneus Associative Learning Capacity [+M]
Related Designs¶
Examples¶
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Key Sources¶
- Raynal, E., Schipper, K., Brandner, C., Ruggeri, P. & Barral, J. (2024). Electrocortical correlates of attention differentiate individual capacity in associative learning. npj Science of Learning. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41539-024-00236-8
Page metadata
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
type |
design |
id |
shape-color-associative-learning-task-sdt |
title |
Trial-and-error shape–color associative learning task scored with Signal Detection Theory d' |
description |
A computerized associative learning task in which 12 abstract two-dimensional shapes had to be associated with one of four colors through trial-and-error feedback, with yes/no responses to target or lure color-shape p... |
status |
review |
generated |
by process:settle-candidates on 2026-10-26 |
trust |
unverified — no one has confirmed this page's content |
sources |
1 — raynal-2024 |
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