Mental Models and Transfer Learning
AEA Papers and Proceedings
vol. 113,
May 2023
(pp. 659-64)
Abstract
Using a laboratory experiment, we investigate the extent to which learning is transferred between related problems in the context of an updating task. The updating principle we study requires updating positively after a positive signal and negatively after a negative signal. In the first environment, most subjects initially fail to satisfy the principle but eventually adjust after feedback. The environment they face subsequently presents the same challenges but with different parameter values. We find weak evidence for transfer learning: only half of the subjects who learn to be consistent with the principle remain so when the parameter values are changed.Citation
Esponda, Ignacio, Emanuel Vespa, and Sevgi Yuksel. 2023. "Mental Models and Transfer Learning." AEA Papers and Proceedings, 113: 659-64. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20231114Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- C91 Design of Experiments: Laboratory, Individual
- D83 Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
- D91 Micro-Based Behavioral Economics: Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making