Attention Flashcards
Refers to the upper limit of processing that can be performed on incoming information at one time
Capacity or divided attention
Refers to feeding one message into the right ear and another into the left ear
Dichotic listening
Refers to feeding one message into the right ear and another into the left ear, and then the participant has to repeat one of the messages
Shadowing
Refers to the ability to switch attention to a different source of information e.g. due to pitch of voice or a familiar stimulus of the person’s name
Cocktail party effect
Model for attention where only one source is selected for focusing depending on physical characteristics of the information
Broadbent’s early selection filter
Model for attention where both physical characteristics and meaning are used to select one source of information for full attention while the others are partially processed
Triesman’s attenuation theory
Model for attention where filtering only occurs after all information is analysed
Deutsch-Norman late selection model
Effect that Broadbent’s early selection filter model for attention does not explain
Cocktail party effect
Control of a task when it is first learnt and conscious attention is needed for the task
Closed loop control
Control of a task when it is well known and automatic motor processes can take over some of the task - conscious attention is not needed
Open loop control
Test used to test selective attention by asking participants to first name colours written down, then name the colour the words are written in
Stroop test
Type of attention used to perceive individual items of information
Focused attention
Type of attention used to maintain a consistent behavioural response during continuous or repetitive activity
Sustained attention or concentration
The attention used to avoid distractions from other stimuli and maintain a response in the presence of competing stimuli
Selective attention
The ability to switch the focus of attention between tasks
Alternating attention
