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Related Concept Videos

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 31, 2026

Using Rapid Serial Visual Presentation to Measure Set-Specific Capture, a Consequence of Distraction While Multitasking
05:58

Using Rapid Serial Visual Presentation to Measure Set-Specific Capture, a Consequence of Distraction While Multitasking

Published on: August 29, 2018

Can the focus of attention accommodate multiple, separate items?

Amanda L Gilchrist1, Nelson Cowan

  • 1Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA. algkb8@mail.mizzou.edu

Journal of Experimental Psychology. Learning, Memory, and Cognition
|July 20, 2011
PubMed
Summary

The focus of attention, crucial for working memory, may hold at least two separate items, challenging previous capacity limits. This suggests either multiple chunks are possible or current switch cost measures need re-evaluation.

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Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Neuroscience
  • Human Memory

Background:

  • Working memory research debates the capacity of the focus of attention.
  • Previous estimates range from 1 to 4 chunks.
  • Prior studies suggested 2 items were possible only if chunked into one unit.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the capacity of the focus of attention without relying on chunking.
  • To determine if the focus of attention can hold multiple, distinct items.
  • To re-examine the interpretation of switch costs in attention research.

Main Methods:

  • Modified the experimental procedure used by Oberauer and Bialkova (2009).
  • Designed experiments to minimize the likelihood of items being combined into a single chunk.
  • Utilized a switch cost paradigm to measure attention capacity.

Main Results:

  • Results were consistent with a capacity of at least 2 items in the focus of attention.
  • Evidence suggests items can be held separately, not necessarily combined into chunks.
  • The findings challenge the assumption that 2 items require chunking.

Conclusions:

  • The focus of attention may be capable of holding multiple distinct chunks.
  • Alternatively, the underlying logic of switch cost measurements in attention research may need revision.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the capacity and mechanisms of the focus of attention.