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Linking computational models of two core tasks of cognitive control
Maria M Robinson1, Mark Steyvers2
1Department of Psychology, University of California, San Diego.
Psychological Review
|October 13, 2022
Summary
Two core cognitive control tasks, the Eriksen flanker and task-switching, share underlying processes. Computational modeling reveals commonalities beyond simple speed or accuracy strategies, supporting higher-level cognitive control theories.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Computational Neuroscience
Background:
- Cognitive control is crucial for goal-directed behavior, involving maintaining focus amidst distractions.
- Understanding shared mechanisms across cognitive control tasks is vital for developing predictive theories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate shared latent constructs between the Eriksen flanker and task-switching tasks using computational modeling.
- To determine if model parameters from one task can predict individual differences in another.
Main Methods:
- Formal linking of computational models for the Eriksen flanker and task-switching tasks.
- Application of a parameter-swapping approach to a large-scale dataset from an online cognitive training platform.
Main Results:
- The Eriksen flanker and task-switching tasks significantly probe common cognitive control processes.
- Evidence suggests shared higher-level control mechanisms, rather than solely task-specific strategies or response speed.
Conclusions:
- The findings support a unified view of cognitive control, highlighting shared higher-order processes across distinct tasks.
- The computational modeling substitution approach offers a robust method for cross-task analysis in cognitive control research.
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