Abstract
This paper describes the use of a custom-configured computer-controlled firearms training simulator to measure perception response (reaction) time (RT) to a stimulus in which the degree of threat presented is a manipulable variable across trials. The computer records the number of frames of videotape traversed between the point of presentation of the threat in the video stimulus and the point at which the subject responds by drawing the firearm. For the purposes of data analysis, these frame-count measures are converted to RT measurements. Example data are presented that capture perception RT at both thedraw-stimulus and thefire-stimulus points in situations for which either only one threat or more than one threat exists. Other elements, such as degree of threat and accuracy of response, provide additional data.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
References
Alexander, G. J., &Lunenfeld, H. (1975).Positive guidance in traffic control (Office of Traffic Operations report). Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.
Barrett, G. V., Kobayashi, M., &Fox, B. H. (1982). Feasibility of studying driver reaction to sudden pedestrian emergencies in an automobile simulator.Human Factors,24, 19–24.
Bjorklund, R. A. (1992). Effects of foreperiod and time on task on reaction-time and movement time.Perceptual & Motor Skills,74, 131–144.
Luce, R. D. (1986).Response times: Their role in inferring elementary mental organization. New York: Oxford University Press.
Olson, P. L. (1989, March).Driver perception response time. Paper presented at the International Congress and Exposition, Society of Automotive Engineers, Detroit, MI.
Rogers, W. A., &Fisk A. D. (1990). A reconsideration of age-related reaction time slowing from a learning perspective: Age-related slowing is not just complexity-based.Journal of Learning & Individual Differences,2, 161–179.
Seymour, G. O., Stahl, J. M., Levine, S. L., Ingram, J. L., &Smith, R. F. (1994). Modifying law enforcement training simulators for use in basic research.Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers,26, 266–268.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
This research was supported in part by Grant DAAL 03-92-G-0382 from the U.S. Army Research Office to G.O.S. and J.M.S., and by Undergraduate Honors Research Fellowship 5T34MH16573-14 from NIMH-COR to D.R.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Seymour, G.O., Stahl, J.M., Swann, G.B. et al. Use of a computer-controlled firearms training simulator in perception response time experiments. Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers 27, 148–151 (1995). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03204720
Received:
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03204720