Cognitive set occurs when a known or familiar solution blocks a better alternative.
THE LS-DS Task
The Learned Strategy - Direct Strategy task is a nonverbal, non-arithmetic measure of cognitive flexibility. Unlike typical metrics, the LS-DS task does not require subjects to switch away from a learned strategy. Subjects learn, across three Training levels, how to select Square1 and then Square2 of a demonstration and then select the Triangle. This Square1-Square2-Triangle solution constitutes the Learned Strategy (demonstrated by the white hand). However, in PROBE trials, the Triangle appears alongside the demonstration thereby allowing subjects to either continue to employ their Learned Strategy or adopt the more efficient Direct Strategy (i.e. just selecting the Triangle; demonstrated by the yellow hand).
Sarah's dissertation research utilized the LS-DS task to compare cognitive set (becoming stuck in a response strategy) between primate species and to assess the developmental and cultural influences on humans' ability to break cognitive set. It has now also been used as a measure of optional-switch cognitive flexibility in capuchins and rhesus macaques (Watzek, Pope, & Brosnan 2019).
Graphic by Julia Watzek
The EZ LS-DS Task
The EZ Learned Strategy - Direct Strategy Task is modified to reduce the working memory load associated with the learned rule. Instead of replicating a demonstration, subjects learn to select Square1 - which is striped - and then Square2 - which is dotted - before the triangle is revealed.
This version was used in Watzek, J., Pope, S. M., Brosnan, S. F. (2019) Capuchin and rhesus monkeys but not humans show cognitive flexibility in an optional-switch task. Scientific Reports, 9(1) 13195. — Graphic by Julia Watzek
