AhissarHochstein04

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The reverse hierarchy theory of visual perceptual learning. (AhissarHochstein04)

Ahissar, M. and S. Hochstein (2004). "The reverse hierarchy theory of visual perceptual learning." Trends Cogn Sci 8(10): 457-64.

Image:Pdf_icon.png AhissarHochstein04.pdf

Abstract

Perceptual learning can be defined as practice-induced improvement in the ability to perform specific perceptual tasks. We previously proposed the Reverse Hierarchy Theory as a unifying concept that links behavioral findings of visual learning with physiological and anatomical data. Essentially, it asserts that learning is a top-down guided process, which begins at high-level areas of the visual system, and when these do not suffice, progresses backwards to the input levels, which have a better signal-to-noise ratio. This simple concept has proved powerful in explaining a broad range of findings, including seemingly contradicting data. We now extend this concept to describe the dynamics of skill acquisition and interpret recent behavioral and electrophysiological findings.

Keywords

Cerebral Cortex/physiology; Humans; Learning; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Psychological Theory; Visual Perception/physiology

Other Information

Web page of Shaul Hochstein.

Web page of Merav Ahissar.


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