Infographic (IMAGE)
Caption
A: A soccer player who always trains to hit the goal from the same positions A, B and C can improve and learn the general movement to reach the goal (generalization = G) or he can learn the very detailed shot angles and distances from A or B or C to the goal (specialization = S). B: In the specialization strategy, the task is processed at the neural level by three different groups of brain cells that are highly sensitive to each specific position. Thus, for example, the neurons encode the angle from A to the goal, the distance from A to the goal, and likewise for positions B and C. These neurons are normally located in the early steps of sensory processing (marked with blue S). In the generalization strategy, other neurons are used due to the heterogeneous training. These react less to aspects like angle or distance. Thus, learning is controlled by neurons that are responsible for the goal-scoring itself and not for the details of the different positions. These neurons are generally located at higher levels of sensory processing (marked with red G). C: During real play, the player who learned with neural strategy S will decrease in accuracy because he is unable to generalize learning to new positions outside of A, B, or C. The player with learning strategy G, on the other hand, achieves high performance in scoring the goal.
Credit
Giorgio Manenti, DPZ
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The image material may only be used for editorial purposes referring to the German Primate Center. To this purpose, publication is authorized free of charge provided that the source is indicated. Any use for promotional or political purposes requires the prior authorization.
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Original content