Effects of hypothesis testing and variable format training on generalization of a verbal abstraction strategy by EMR learners.

The effectiveness of a training program, varying in presentation format (single vs. multiple task), in promoting the acquisition and generalization of a verbal abstraction strategy was evaluated for 38 female and 42 male EMR learners. Although the training program enhanced the acquisition and near generalization of the verbal abstraction strategy, no far generalization was observed. Presentation format had no effect on acquisition nor on near or far generalization. The results were interpreted in terms of prior findings, and an alternate definition of generalization was offered.