Recognition memory for pictures: Dynamic vs. static stimuli

Abstract

In prior research, pictorial recognition memory typically has been measured by having subjects encode static visual stimuli, such as photographs and projected photoslides. An experiment explored short-term recognition memory for the content of a 10-min segment of film. In one testing condition, 8-sec film segments derived from the study film segment and from other sections of the same film were used as targets and foils. In another testing condition, still pictures (“freeze frames”) derived from the film segment and from other portions of the film were presented as targets and foils. Control subjects saw still pictures and were tested on still targets and foils, all derived from the films. Pictorial recognition memory for dynamically presented material was significantly better than memory for the same information presented statically. © 1982, Psychonomic Society, Inc.. All rights reserved.