Serial-Order Effects in Two-Channel Running Memory

Abstract

It is hypothesized that serial order can sometimes be a more important source of error in running memory than the number of items S is required to retain. This hypothesis was tested using binary series of symbols in two-channel memory conditions that required S to recall two previously seen symbols when two new symbols were viewed. It was found that those Ss who performed a 1-back match before performing a 2-back match committed more errors on 2-back matching than Ss who performed two 2-back matches each trial. The increased error shown in going from IB to 2B matching on the same trial was primarily attributed to Ss’ inability to deal accurately with retained double-tons of identical symbols. Four other sources of error did not show a specific relation to serial order.