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Self-validating presentation and response timing in cognitive paradigms: how and why?
Richard R Plant1, Nick Hammond, Garry Turner
1Department of Psychology, University of York, York, England. r.plant@psych.york.ac.uk
Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers : a Journal of the Psychonomic Society, Inc
|September 10, 2004
Summary
Timing accuracy in cognitive psychology experiments is often assumed to be solved, but this study reveals significant timing errors. A new device and software help researchers benchmark and correct these errors for improved replicability.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Behavioral Sciences
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Commercial experiment generators and custom software are widely used in psychology.
- There's a common assumption that millisecond timing accuracy issues are resolved.
Purpose of the Study:
- To empirically investigate sources of timing error in computer-based experimental paradigms.
- To introduce a novel device and software for benchmarking and correcting timing inaccuracies.
- To enhance the reliability and replicability of behavioral science research.
Main Methods:
- Empirical investigation of various experimental paradigms.
- Development of a commercial device and software for in situ benchmarking.
- Testing of computer-based paradigms without modification.
Main Results:
- Numerous sources of timing error were identified, including scripting issues, incorrect specifications, and hardware variability.
- The developed device and software effectively benchmark experimental paradigms.
- The system allows for correction of timing errors through various methods.
Conclusions:
- Millisecond timing accuracy remains a significant challenge in cognitive and behavioral research.
- Independent validation tools are crucial for ensuring experimental rigor.
- The new benchmarking system offers practical solutions for improving data quality and replicability.