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Author (up) Tomasello, M.; Davis-Dasilva, M.; Camak, L.; Bard, K. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Observational learning of tool-use by young chimpanzees Type Journal Article
  Year 1987 Publication Abbreviated Journal Human Evolution  
  Volume 2 Issue 2 Pages 175-183  
  Keywords Chimpanzees; Observational Learning; Tool-Use  
  Abstract In the current study two groups of young chimpanzees (4–6 and 8–9 years old) were given a T-bar and a food item that could only be reached by using the T-bar. Experimental subjects were given the opportunity to observe an adult using the stick as a tool to obtain the food; control subjects were exposed to the adult but were given no demonstration. Subjects in the older group did not learn to use the tool. Subjects in the younger group who were exposed to the demonstrator learned to use the stick as a tool much more readily than those who were not. None of the subjects demonstrated an ability to imitatively copy the demonstrator's precise behavioral strategies. More than simple stimulus enhancement was involved, however, since both groups manipulated the T-bar, but only experimental subjects used it in its function as a tool. Our findings complement naturalistic observations in suggesting that chimpanzee tool-use is in some sense «culturally transmitted» — though perhaps not in the same sense as social-conventional behaviors for which precise copying of conspecifics is crucial.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Kluwer Academic Publishers Place of Publication Editor  
  Language English Summary Language Original Title  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0393-9375 ISBN Medium  
  Area Expedition Conference  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number Equine Behaviour @ team @ Serial 5915  
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