Zhang, F. 1 , Jaffe-Dax, S. . 1 , Wilson, R. C. 2 & Emberson, L. L. 1
1 Princeton University
2 University of Arizona
Prediction, defined as the ability to use past experiences to generate expectations about future sensory input, has been shown to be a core aspect of adult brain function. Research with adults show that predictions can be correct or incorrect and each has the potential to support incremental cognitive changes. When your prediction is correct, it allows you to efficiently process incoming information. When your prediction is incorrect, it generates prediction error signals in the brain. These prediction errors are important for updating your prediction and making more accurate predictions. Recent work in development psychology have found neural evidence that infants also experience prediction error, suggesting predictions can support cognitive development early in life. Therefore, one question that naturally arises is: Do infants and adults use prediction and prediction error in similar ways?
The goal of this study is to provide the first direct comparison of prediction and prediction error across infants and adults. We used pupillometry because it is one of the few methods that allows for the recording of the same physiological response in an identical behavioral paradigm across these disparate age groups. Furthermore, pupil diameter has been shown to be a marker of uncertainty and surprise in adults, both of which reflect learning and prediction. We measured infants? and adults? pupil dilation response (PDR) as they completed an audiovisual association learning task. We found significantly larger PDR for omission trials (i.e. trials that violated participants? predictions) compared to present trials (i.e. trials that confirmed participants? predictions) in both infants and adults. Furthermore, a learning model demonstrated similar time-course and magnitude of this response across age groups suggesting a life-span continuity of mechanism in prediction and statistical learning.