Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9467-0472
Date of Award
5-2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Michael Beran
Second Advisor
Sarah Brosnan
Third Advisor
Bonnie Perdue
Abstract
Self-directed learning (SDL) is a form of learning wherein individuals have primary control over much or all of the learning process. Little research has been done to investigate this topic in nonhuman animals. The current study involved testing rhesus monkeys and tufted capuchin monkeys on a chained sequential learning task to assess whether they could engage in SDL. Monkeys were either forced to sequence a randomly assigned number of unfamiliar items, allowed to choose the number of unfamiliar items they wanted to sequence, or allowed to choose the number of items they wanted to sequence in a set of familiar items. Species differences in choice behavior emerged, with rhesus monkeys choosing long sequences and capuchins choosing medium-length sequences. However, neither of these strategies proved efficient. The results did not support the idea that nonhuman primates can engage in SDL, and potential causes for the species’ different strategies are discussed.
Recommended Citation
McKeon, Joseph, "Self-Directed Learning in Nonhuman Primates." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2024.
https://scholarworks.gsu.edu/psych_theses/276
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