Final answer:
When designing a test of animal cognition, it is important to create a problem for the animal to solve, determine the parameters to record as data, expose the animal to the same scenario again later, and focus on careful quantitative analysis of fixed action patterns.
Step-by-step explanation:
When designing a test of animal cognition, you might include the following:
- Create a problem for the animal to solve, such as getting a treat out of a box. This tests the animal's problem-solving abilities.
- Determine ahead of time what parameters to record as data, such as how long it takes the animal to retrieve the treat. This allows for objective measurement and analysis.
- Expose the animal to the same scenario again later. This tests the animal's ability to remember and learn from previous experiences.
- Focus on careful quantitative analysis of fixed action patterns. This involves observing and analyzing the animal's instinctive behaviors.