Forty-eight 5s performed a stimulus categorization task under either speed or accuracy conditions. Reaction time (RT) was a linear function of central processing uncertainty (H a ), 'R.T=A+B(H Q ). Speed conditions resulted in a lesser value of A than accuracy conditions. B was independent of speed vs. accuracy. Additional analyses indicated A was linearly related to accuracy level (information transmitted, H t ): A=C-\-D(Hi). C was interpreted as initial encoding plus decoding time, D as time to sample encoded information, and B as central processing time. The results are consistent with statistical decision models and support the SCAN mechanism proposed by Sperling. Most importantly, the results locate Hick's law in the preprocessing stage of a human information-processing paradigm.
Task complexity (2 levels), task organization (independence of task dimensions-2 levels), and training method (whole vs. progressivepart) were combined factorially in an 8-group transfer of training study of skill in a Markov prediction task. A hypothesized interaction of the 3 independent variables was supported by the data, thus suggesting the following training principle: for a relatively highly organized (integrated) task, a whole-task training method should be superior to a part schedule at all levels of task complexity; however, for a relatively unorganized task (all task dimensions independent), an increase in task complexity will result in a part-task training schedule becoming superior to whole training.
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