How would the Rescorla-Wagner model account for overshadowing in a situation in which a loud tone conditions better than a dim light when they are conditioned in compound?
A) The model would have to be revised, as it cannot currently account for overshadowing.
B) It would use a different λ for each CS.
C) It would use two different α's and two different $\beta$'s
D) It would assume that α is greater for the more salient CS.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Rescorla-Wagner model explains overshadowing by assuming that the learning rate (α) is greater for the more salient conditioned stimulus (CS), such as a loud tone, compared to a less salient CS, like a dim light. This means that the more noticeable stimulus captures more of the associative strength from the conditioning trials, overshadowing the less salient stimulus.

How Would the Rescorla-Wagner Model Account for Overshadowing in a Situation