Relational Learning and Symbolic Functioning: Basic and Applied Research Stimulus Equivalence is an experimental model to simulate symbolic functioning in the laboratory. This model provides procedures to establish symbolic relations and operational criteria to assert that relations are indeed symbolic. Arbitrary relations between stimuli are symbolic if they have the properties of reflexivity, symmetry, and transitivity. If equivalence is a model of meaning, then a series of implications can be experimentally evaluated. For example, a meaningful stimulus should transfer its meaning to abstract stimuli that are equivalent to it. This is what is required in learning tasks that involve arbitrary relations, such as those that are typical of language acquisition (e.g., oral language, sign language, picture exchange communication systems [PECS], etc.) or reading with comprehension (text only acquires meaning when the student learns to relate the symbols to the word’s sounds that, in turn, are symbols of other meaningful stimuli). In the pursuit of behavioral science and technology goals that address symbolic function and functional deficits, three major components of the program are under development: Basic Science, Translational Science, and Applied Science (for a more detailed description, see Annual Report # 1 [2009-2010], at www.inctecce. com.br).
ANNUAL REPORT # 5 (2013-2014) National Institute of Science and Technology on Behavior, Cognition and Teaching
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