Showing papers by "Michael S. Humphreys published in 2001"

A Context Noise Model of Episodic Word Recognition

Abstract: Item noise models of recognition assert that interference at retrieval is generated by the words from the study list. Context noise models of recognition assert that interference at retrieval is generated by the contexts in which the test word has appeared. The authors introduce the bind cue decide model of episodic memory, a Bayesian context noise model, and demonstrate how it can account for data from the item noise and dual-processing approaches to recognition memory. From the item noise perspective, list strength and list length effects, the mirror effect for word frequency and concreteness, and the effects of the similarity of other words in a list are considered. From the dual-processing perspective, process dissociation data on the effects of length, temporal separation of lists, strength, and diagnosticity of context are examined. The authors conclude that the context noise approach to recognition is a viable alternative to existing approaches.

Towards model based prediction of human error rates in interactive systems

Abstract: Growing use of computers in safety-critical systems increases the need for Human Computer Interfaces (HCIs) to be both smarter - to detect human errors - and better designed - to reduce likelihood of errors. We are developing methods for determining the likelihood of operator errors which combine current theory on the psychological causes of human errors with formal methods for modelling human-computer interaction. We present the models of the HCI and operator in an air-traffic control (ATC) system simulation, and discuss the role of these in the prediction of human error rates.

Proactive interference and complexity.

Abstract: C. L. Isaac and A. R. Mayes (1999a, 1999b) compared forgetting rates in amnesic patients and normal participants across a range of memory tasks. Although the results are complex, many of them appear to be replicable and there are several commendable features to the design and analysis. Nevertheless, the authors largely ignored 2 relevant literatures: the traditional literature on proactive inhibition/interference and the formal analyses of the complexity of the bindings (associations) required for memory tasks. It is shown how the empirical results and conceptual analyses in these literatures are needed to guide the choice of task, the design of experiments, and the interpretation of results for amnesic patients and normal participants.

Expecting dirt but saying dart: The creation of a blend memory.

Abstract: During a naming task, time pressure and a manipulation of the proportion of related prime-target pairs were used to induce subjects to generate an expectation to the prime. On some trials, the presented target was orthographically and generally phonologically similar to the expected target. The expectancy manipulation was barely detectable in the priming data but was clearly evident on a final recognition test. In addition, the recognition data showed that the nearly simultaneous activation of an expectation and sensory information derived from the orthographically and phonologically similar target produced a false memory. It is argued that this represents a blend memory.

A Formal Model Of Cognitive Processes For An Air Traffic Control Task

Abstract: This document describes a formal model of the cognitive processes involved in a simplified Air Traffic Control task. The model has been developed as part of the SafeHCI project, which is investigating detection and prevention of human error in safety-critical systems. The model will serve as the basis for development of new techniques for prediction of error sources and classification of error types. This document describes the cognitive model in detail.