Prevalence Effects in Visual Search: Theoretical and Practical Implications Comparing Mixed and Blocked Search Tasks

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how people perform visual search tasks, comparing repeated searches of the same type with mixed searches of different types. The goal is to find qualitative differences in visual search behavior between performing one search many times in a row versus performing multiple search tasks intermixed. This study is part of a wider research grant and explores whether rules established in controlled blocked searches apply in more natural, mixed search scenarios. Participants perform four unique visual search tasks under two conditions: Blocked and Mixed. In Blocked trials, each task is done in a block of 100 trials, while in Mixed trials, all four tasks are randomly mixed in a single block of 400 trials. Stimuli appear in random positions on a computer screen within a 5 x 5 grid, with three set sizes and balanced target presence. Participants respond by pressing keys to indicate if a target is present or absent, receiving accuracy feedback after each trial. During the study, participant response times and accuracy are measured to understand search behavior differences. The study runs for about one year, with data collection continuing through this period. Participants' visual abilities are screened, and trials are randomized without masking. The study welcomes healthy volunteers aged 18 and older, monitoring their performance across repeated and mixed search tasks in a controlled lab setting.

Mixed Vs Blocked Search: Four Unique Tasks