Multiple-object tracking in children: The 'Catch the Spies' task

Publication Type  Journal Article
Year of Publication  2005
Authors  Trick, L.M.; Jaspers-Fayer,F.; Sethi, N.
Journal Title  Cognitive Development
Volume  20
Pagination  373-387
ISBN Number  0885-2014
Key Words  Working-Memory; Selective Attention; Fractionation; Vision; Age
Abstract  

Multiple-object tracking involves simultaneously tracking positions of a number of target-items as they move among distractors. The standard version of the task poses special challenges for children, demanding extended concentration and the ability to distinguish targets from identical-looking distractors, and may thus underestimate children's tracking abilities. As a result, a modified version of the task called "Catch the Spies" was developed. Participants tracked one to four moving "spies" (targets) that had "disguised" themselves so that they could blend in with a crowd of 10 people (happy-faces). Tracking accuracy was measured in live age groups (6, 8, 10, 12, and 19 years old). All performed well above chance though there were age-related increases in the number that could be tracked at once. Overall, when the effects of age were statistically controlled, tracking performance was significantly better for action videogame players than non-players, and marginally better for action-sports participants than non-participants.


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