Interaction of information in word recognition.

Abstract

Quantitative predictions are made from a model for word recognition. The model has as its central feature a set of "logogens": devices which accept information relevant to a particular word response irrespective of the source of this information. When more than a threshold amount of information has accumulated in any logogen, that particular response becomes available for responding. The model is tested against data available on the effect of word frequency on recognition, the effect of limiting the number of response alternatives, the interaction of stimulus and context, and the interaction of successive presentations of stimuli. The implications of the underlying model are largely upheld. Other possible models for word recognition are discussed as are the implications of the Logogen Model for theories of memory. In previous papers a functional model for word recognition has been developed (Morton, 1964a, 1964b, 1964d; Morton & Broadbent, 1967). The form of description used only lent itself to qualitative predictions and while it seemed to have some heuristic value, the overall system was too complex to allow rigorous specification of its properties. In the present paper the model is first outlined in a slightly simplified way and then certain features of it are isolated in order to make quantitative predictions about performance in word recognition. The various predictions made are largely independent and have in common only the fact that in all situations there is some stimulus information present. The effects of word frequency are taken to indicate relatively permanent changes in the system; the effects of having a reduced set of alternative responses involve temporary changes in the same variable. Different predictions are made concerning the interaction of a context with the stimulus and the effects of repeated presentation, these differences arising from differences in the potential sources of such information. The model contrasts most completely with explanations of word