Context Effects in Running Memory

Abstract

7 groups of college-age Ss attempted to recall whether the next to last symbol was the “same” or “different” from the viewed symbol in a running series of 42 symbols. 6 of the groups also predicted the recall outcome on successive trials. Expectancy did not influence retention, but a negative recency effect sensitive to symbol runs resulted from predictions. Results from memory errors contradicted the concept of a fixed running recall-span. Evidence was found for (a) recall generalization to the symbol before the next to last symbol and (b) good recall accuracy where the viewed symbol was separated from its last occurrence by at least three intervening symbols. Consideration of short-term memory from the standpoint of association formation is deemed inadequate.