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Related Experiment Videos

Switching between memory and perception: moving attention or memory retrieval?

V J Dark1

  • 1Department of Psychology, Iowa State University, Ames 50011.

Memory & Cognition
|March 1, 1990
PubMed
Summary
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Attention switching between memory and perception is faster than previously thought, around 100-150 msec. New findings suggest this reflects memory retrieval processes, not just attention shifts.

Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Human Information Processing

Background:

  • Previous research estimated attention switching time between memory and perception at approximately 300 msec.
  • The Weber, Burt, and Noll (1986) study provided an initial framework for measuring this cognitive process.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To re-estimate attention switching times using a modified task.
  • To investigate the influence of factors like input/output compatibility, response initiation, and memory load on switching time.
  • To explore potential asymmetries in switching speed between perception-to-memory and memory-to-perception.

Main Methods:

  • Subjects reported lists of six items presented on a screen (perception), recalled from memory, or alternated between the two.
  • Experiments controlled for input/output compatibility, response-initiation times, and memory load.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Experiment 3 isolated single switches by focusing on precued or non-precued item pairs.

    • Main Results:

    • Controlled switching times were estimated at 100-150 msec, significantly lower than prior estimates.
    • Asymmetrical switching times were observed, with perception-to-memory potentially slower than memory-to-perception.
    • Precued conditions in Experiment 3 yielded near-zero switching times, while non-precued perception-to-memory switches exceeded 400 msec.

    Conclusions:

    • The task likely involves memory retrieval processes rather than pure attention switching.
    • Attention switching times may reflect the cognitive effort required for memory selection.
    • The findings necessitate a reconceptualization of the cognitive mechanisms underlying these tasks.