Abstract
In order to investigate the effect of memory load on reaction time (RT), choice RT trials were embedded in a binary character classification task using the varied set procedure. Twelve Ss performed in experimental blocks, as well as in control blocks consisting of character classification trials only. In experimental blocks, every trial began as a classification trial with the presentation of a new positive set. On a random half of these trials, however, a choice RT stimulus was presented instead of a probe letter and S simply made the indicated response. Results indicated that memory load had no effect on the choice RT trials. Embedding choice RT trials in the classification task affected the intercept (but not the slope) of the function relating classification RT to memory load. This result implies that the increase in latency usually obtained in classification experiments is entirely due to an increase in the duration of the memory searching stage of processing.
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This research was supported by the Advanced Research Projects Agency. U.S. Department of Defense, and monitored by the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research, under Contracts AF 49(638)-1736 and F44620-72-C-0019 with the University of Michigan’s Human Performance Center, Department of Psychology. The authors would like to thank Roberta L. Klatzky for her constructive criticism of an earlier version of the present paper.
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Wattenbarger, B.L., Pachellat, R.G. The effect of memory load on reaction time in character classification. Perception & Psychophysics 12, 100–102 (1972). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03212852
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03212852