Dr. Rita Anderson

Biography

Rita Anderson is an Honorary Research Professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland. She is a cognitive psychologist with research interests primarily centered on cognition in both human and nonhuman animals, particularly focusing on canine-related projects. Her work has explored the cognitive aspects of mental imagery and problem-solving in various domains. Throughout her career, she has supervised numerous graduate students and remained actively engaged in research initiatives. Anderson's significant contributions include investigations into visual spatial reasoning, memory load in visual tasks, and the social behaviors of domestic dogs and wolves. Additionally, her research has emphasized the nuances of communication and behavior within animal groups, particularly in controlled social settings. Over the years, she has co-authored multiple publications in reputable journals and has presented her findings at various conferences. Despite retiring in 2010, Anderson continues to collaborate with colleagues and guide new students in their research endeavors, focusing on advancing our understanding of cognitive behavior in animals and the implications of mental imagery in learning processes.

Research Interests