Behavioural evidence for a single memory system in contextual cueing

ABSTRACT

If a target is repeatedly encountered within a stable search array, target detection is accelerated over time. Nonetheless, participants fail to identify repeated search layouts in recognition tests. This dissociation has motivated the assumption that search and recognition performances are driven by two distinct memory components. Search facilitations are supported by an unconscious system, rendering memory traces inaccessible for report. The opposite is true for the conscious system: intentional learning of search layouts should result in lasting recognition. At the same time, explicitly acquired memory representations should be unable to generate search advantages in the absence of awareness. To test these assumptions, we introduced an intentional learning task in which participants memorized a set of “explicit” displays. During search, explicit displays appeared alongside repeated, yet not previously studied (“implicit”) and new configurations. Explicit displays elicited lower reaction times, fewer fixations, and a more efficient scan path compared to implicit arrays. Using a statistically powerful recognition test, we demonstrate above-chance recognition of explicit and implicit displays. We consequently suggest that all information is stored in a single memory system, with the strength of representations varying from weak to high. Across the continuum, contents are accessible for retrieval during search and recognition.

KEYWORDS:

• Visual search
• contextual cueing
• memory systems
• consciousness
• scan path

Data availability statement

The data set supporting the findings of this study is available from the corresponding author L. M. K., upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by a project grant from the German research foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, DFG, grant GE 1889/3-1 to T. Geyer).