Modulating temporal dynamics of performance across retinotopic locations enhances the generalization of perceptual learning

Human visual perception can be improved through perceptual learning. However, such learning is often specific to stimulus and learning conditions. Here, we explored how temporal dynamics of performance across conditions impact learning generalization. Participants performed a visual task, with the target at retinotopic location A. Then, the target was presented at location B either immediately after location A (same-session performance) or following a 48h consolidation period (different-session performance). Long-term generalization was measured the following week. Following initial training, both groups demonstrated generalization, consistent with previous accounts of fast learning. However, long-term generalization was enhanced in the same-session performance group. Consistently, improvements at lo-cations A and B were correlated only following same-session performance, implying an integrated learning process across locations. The results support a new account of perceptual learning and general-ization dynamics, suggesting that the temporal proximity of learning and consolidation of different con-ditions may integrate correlated learning processes, facilitating generalized learning.

Automated summary

This study explores the impact of performance in the same task under different learning conditions on long-term generalization learning. The results show that the same-session performance group demonstrates better long-term generalization, and improvements in locations A and B are only correlated after same-session performance, indicating an integrated learning process between locations.