On doing multi-act arithmetic: A multitrait-multimethod approach of performance dimensions in integrated multitasking.

Here we present a systematic plan to the experimental study of test-retest reliability in the multitasking domain, adopting the to evaluate the psychometric properties of performance in speeded multiple-act mental arithmetic. These form of tasks capacitate the experimental analysis of by combining multiple mental operations in flexible ways in the service of the overarching goal of completing the task. A particular focus was on scoring methodology, particularly measures of response speed variability.

Methodology of performance scoring in the d2 sustained-attention test: Cumulative-reliability functions and practical guidelines.

We provide a psychometric analysis of commonly used performance indices of the d2 sustained-attention test, and give methodical guidelines and recommendations, based on this research. We examined experimental effects of repeated testing on performance speed and accuracy (omission and commission errors), and further evaluated aspects of test reliability by means of cumulative reliability function (CRF) analysis. These aspects were also examined for a number of alternative (yet commonly used) scoring techniques and valuation methods.

Error reactivity in self-paced performance: Highly-accurate individuals exhibit largest post-error slowing.

Reaction time is typically increased following an erroneous response. This post-error slowing is traditionally explained by a strategic adjustment of response threshold towards more conservative behaviour. A recently proposed orienting account provides an alternative explanation for post-error slowing.

Differential effects of prolonged work on performance measures in self-paced speed tests.

Time-related changes in the speeded performance of complex cognitive tasks are considered to arise from the combined effects of practice and mental fatigue. Here we explored the differential contributions of practice and fatigue to performance changes in a self-paced speeded mental addition and comparison task of about 50 min duration, administered twice within one week's time. Performance measures included average response speed, accuracy, and response speed variability.