Viki’s ability to imitate was first noticed at an early age. As her skills developed, her human “parents” began to develop exercises specifically geared to gauge her imitation abilities and what effect they had on her learning. Here, Viki is shown observing, then imitating at a delay, her “mama” opening friction lids (the type often found on paint cans).

You might also want to visit our module on Learning by Observation where you can learn more about Viki and her ability to learn through observation and imitation.