Abstract
In two experiments, we used response signals (RSs) to control processing time and trace out speed—accuracy trade-off (SAT) functions in a difficult perceptual discrimination task. Each experiment compared performance in blocks of trials with constant and, hence, temporally predictable RS lags against performance in blocks with variable, unpredictable RS lags. In both experiments, essentially equivalent SAT functions were observed with constant and variable RS lags. We conclude that there is little effect of advance preparation for a given processing time, suggesting that the discrimination mechanisms underlying SAT functions are driven solely by bottom-up information processing in perceptual discrimination tasks.
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This research was supported by a grant from the Marsden Fund, administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand.
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Miller, J., Sproesser, G. & Ulrich, R. Constant versus variable response signal delays in speed—accuracy trade-offs: Effects of advance preparation for processing time. Perception & Psychophysics 70, 878–886 (2008). https://doi.org/10.3758/PP.70.5.878
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/PP.70.5.878