Abstract
Two observers practised to detect small target lines of varying luminance presented either within a context of collinear inducing stimuli, or without the context in separate blocks. A two-alternative spatial-forced-choice procedure using the method of constant stimuli was employed. For blocks of 500 trials, reflecting individual performance on five successive days of training, the percentage of correct responses, and the response times were analyzed. After several thousands of trials, i.e. several weeks of practice, both observers managed to detect targets presented at their strongest luminance within the context condition. Without the context, these targets remained undetected. Response times (RT) vary nonsystematically during training. Once detection is observed at the highest target luminance, the accuracy of the individual responses (percentage of correct responses) systematically increases, and processing speed (RT) systematically decreases with increasing target intensity. These results show that, within the appropriate perceptual context, practice can lead to a better detectability of visual stimuli presented at luminance levels near detection threshold. This improvement is reflected by an optimization of the visual integration of the different luminance levels of the target (sensory coding), and processing speed (response routine) during training.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
