Search for multiple targets: remember the targets, forget the search

Percept Psychophys. 2001 Feb;63(2):272-85. doi: 10.3758/bf03194468.

Abstract

Models of visual search performance typically assume that search proceeds by sampling without replacement. This requires memory for each deployment of attention. We tested this assumption of memory-driven search using a multiple-target search paradigm. We held total set size constant, varied the number of targets in the display, and asked subjects to report whether or not there were at least n targets present, where n was varied by block. This allowed us to measure the time to find each subsequent target. Memory-driven search predicts that reaction time should be a linear function of n. The alternative memory-free search hypothesis predicts an accelerating function. The data falsify the memory-driven hypothesis. They were consistent with the memory-free search hypothesis but would also be consistent with memory for a small number of previously attended locations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Attention*
  • Discrimination Learning
  • Humans
  • Mental Recall*
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual*
  • Psychophysics
  • Reaction Time