SHORT‐TERM MEMORY FOR VISUAL INFORMATION

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Abstract
The accuracy of memory for the position of a spot in a plain visual field was measured. The variables manipulated were: (i) duration of presentation, (ii) length of retention period, (iii) presence or absence of distracting activity. In one experiment an opportunity for rehearsal was provided before the distracting activity was introduced. It was found that although a brief presentation (0–05 sec.) was sufficient for accurate perception, retention deteriorated with delay in a marked manner which resembled the classical STM forgetting curves for verbal material. The deterioration was increased by a distracting task which required vision. The asymptotic error level was decreased by prolonging presentation or by permitting rehearsal, but little advantage was gained by extending the presentation beyond 3 sec.

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