Researchers at Boston University created an interesting study that proved that subconscious learning is possible. Subjects performed a letter-naming task with seemingly random moving dots in the background. One in twenty dots were actually going in the same direction. These subjects were then given the task of identifying dots moving in a pattern or recognizing if two were traveling in the same direction. Those who had unconsciously observed a specific direction during the letter-naming task were better at picking out dots moving in that direction. The conclusion is that attention is not absolutely necessary in order to learn things. But I think everyone can agree that concentration makes for much more effective learning. It was also noted that advertisers would be pleased to hear about the study. Sometimes I get the feeling that advertisers are behind the funding for much of the psychological research taking place these days.