MEMORY FOR FUNCTIONALLY CUED OBJECTS (COMPUTER RESEARCH).

Description

Research was conducted to investigate the effects cognitive abilities and individual demographic characteristics had on the Computerized Perceptual Memory Test (CPM-TEST) developed especially for this investigation. The experiment was modeled after the classic study conducted by Sperling (1960) who found support for the premise that more is seen than can be remembered. Modifications to Sperling's original design included incorporation of computer-generated video images of real-life objects as well as using a touch screen monitor as the input device. The stimuli for the CPM-TEST were functionally categorized objects commonly used by nurses. Nurses at different experience levels were used to study the effect of work experience on the experimental task. The sample consisted of 60 volunteers, 54 women and 6 men, ranging in age from 20 to 54 years. Fifteen participants were chosen from each of four experience groups: (a) Experienced Nurses (nursing for a minimum of three years); (b) Inexperienced Nurses (trained nursing students); (c) Untrained Nurses (newly admitted nursing students); and, (d) Non-nurses (college non-nursing majors). Each participant took the CPM-TEST and six tests selected from the Kit of Factor-Referenced Cognitive Tests (COGTEST) produced by the Educational Testing Service (1976). Statistically significant results were found for the trials factors: first or second half of test taken; time of cue before or after stimulus presentation; and, category of item cued. Results from this study were consistent with those found in Sperling's (1960) study, supporting the fact that more is seen than is remembered in report. The research found that the ability to perceive complex video images was as efficient as the perception of simpler stimuli such as letters and numbers. Neither nursing experience nor any of the demographic characteristics or the achievement variables under investigation had a statistically significant effect on CPM-TEST performance. The microcomputer with touch screen input was found to be an effective tool for perceptual research. Participants reached the training criterion of 100% accuracy with minimal trials.

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