The ability to automatically and implicitly detect complex and noisy regularities in the environment is a fundamental aspect of human cognition. Despite considerable interest in implicit processes, few researchers have conceptualized implicit learning as an ability with meaningful individual differences. Instead, various researchers (e.g., Reber,…

In experiments on individual differences in learning, knowledge prerequisites and learning strategies have been shown to be important factors. The author questions whether learning optimization should rely on direct measures from outside the learner or should elucidate and strengthen the individual's capacity for learning decisions. He proposes to…

The experiments reviewed in this paper give strong reasons for concluding that the order in which things are learned, the range of exemplification of structural principles, and the introduction of a carefully judged amount of conflict may be critical to reaching an appropriate kind and level of learning. (Author/SJL)