Question

Implicit/procedural learning I: rat reach-to-grasp as a model of motor skill learning – ‘more is

better’ and ACh helps
A. Rats learn, across days, to efficiently reach and grasp a small sugar pellet
B. Over those days, the muscle patterns used in grasping adapt
C. Over those days, the area of primary motor cortex taken up by neurons associated with
the reaching limb grows
D. If ACh inputs to the primary motor cortex are removed, neither the learning nor the
changes in motor cortex occur

Answer 1

Cognitive learning in rats, as explored through maze experiments, demonstrates their capacity to create cognitive maps and learn latent behaviors that manifest when motivated by rewards. Myhrer's research further elucidates the role of brain systems and neurotransmitters in diverse forms of learning and memory.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cognitive Learning in Rats

The ability of rats to learn how to run a maze demonstrates cognitive learning. This type of learning, as shown by H.C. Blodgett and E.C. Tolman's studies, involves more than just responding to stimuli through conditioning. Instead, it suggests that rats can form cognitive maps, an internal representation of their environment, which aids them in navigation once a motivational factor, like food, is introduced. Tolman's work indicates that this learning is latent—it occurs without immediate reinforcement, but can manifest quickly when it becomes advantageous to do so.

Myhrer (2003) also discusses the role of neurotransmitters in learning and memory, suggesting that different brain systems, like the hippocampus and cerebellum, play specific roles in different types of learning, including implicit, explicit, and procedural memory.

This knowledge provides insight into how learning and memory are processed and underscores the versatility of cognitive learning over simple conditioned behaviors.