Two paradigms of measuring serial-order memory: two different patterns of serial-position functions.
There are two research paradigms in the area of serial-order memory. One typically uses serial recall (accuracy), and the other comparative judgment (reaction time) for measuring serial-order memory. Spontaneous subgrouping is commonly observed in the recall serial-position function in the form of multiple bowings. However, comparative judgment with a reaction time measure produces a single-bowing function. Researchers adopting these two approaches have opposing views on the form of the structure of serial-order memory with the former favoring a hierarchical, and the latter a unidimensional structure. The present study confirmed the above hypothesized relation between the two measuring procedures and the two different patterns of serial-position functions. It was suggested that a serial recall involves retrieving absolute position information, whereas a comparative judgment involves retrieving relative position information, and that subgrouping serves a facilitating function for the former, but may actually impede the latter process.
Jou
Jerwen
J
Department of Psychology and Anthropology, The University of Texas-Pan American, 1201 W. University Drive, Edinburg, TX 78539-2999, USA. jjou@utpa.edu
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D006801:Humans; D007600:Judgment / Q000502:physiology; D016014:Linear Models; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011930:Reaction Time / Q000502:physiology; D012691:Serial Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult