Principal Investigator:
Robert W. Shumaker
Lead Scientist
Great Ape Trust of Iowa

Co-Investigator:
Benjamin Beck
Director of Conservation
Great Ape Trust of Iowa

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ORANGUTAN AND BONOBO NUMERICAL COMPETENCE

OVERVIEW

The proposed research has three primary objectives. The first is an investigation of the quantity judgment abilities of orangutans (Pongo spp.) and bonobos (Pan paniscus) using a reversed reinforcement contingency. The second studies the ability of orangutans (Pongo spp.) and bonobos (Pan paniscus) to acquire, comprehend, and express labeling skills with Arabic numerals. The third explores the ability of orangutans (Pongo spp.) and bonobos (Pan paniscus) to demonstrate an understanding of numerical concepts through the development and utilization of a token economy. This series of studies will be conducted in a controlled testing environment, in which all variables related to acquisition and comprehension can be captured, allowing for detailed analysis. Quantity judgment trials will be based on a reversed reinforcement contingency. Optimization of answers reveals the ability to discriminate quantities as well as comprehension of the rule governing the task. Acquisition and utilization of Arabic numerals is far more complex, and will be presented in an operant setting via a touch sensitive computer interfaces. Subjects will progress in self paced sessions during which quantities of identical objects will be presented for labeling with numbers. It is anticipated that progress will reveal inter-individual differences in both rate of comprehension and strategies that precede success. Development and utilization of a token economy will be based on several factors, including skill with Arabic numerals, social learning, trial and error learning, and perhaps insightful learning. While all data for this portion of the research will be captured, the procedures will be less structured, allowing the apes to flexibly incorporate the use of numbers into their daily routine. Given the controlled nature of this research, it will be possible to closely examine the incremental progress associated with comprehension as well as the strategies employed during that process. Application of the results may lead to improved or novel techniques for conveying numerical concepts to young humans.

Performance Sites:
» Great Ape Trust of Iowa Des Moines, Iowa

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