This study explored the relation between visual processing and word-decoding ability in a normal reading population. Forty participants were recruited at Arizona State University. Flicker fusion thresholds were assessed with an optical chopper using the method of limits by a 1-deg diameter green (543 nm) test field. Word decoding was measured using reading-word and nonsense-word decoding tests. A non-linguistic decoding measure was obtained using a computer program that consisted of Landolt C targets randomly presented in four cardinal orientations, at 3-radial distances from a focus point, for eight compass points, in a circular pattern. Participants responded by pressing the arrow key on the keyboard that matched the direction the target was facing. The results show a strong correlation between critical flicker fusion thresholds and scores on the reading-word, nonsense-word, and non-linguistic decoding measures. The data suggests that the functional elements of the visual system involved with temporal modulation and spatial processing may affect the ease with which people read.
Details
- Word-Decoding as a Function of Temporal Processing in the Visual System
- Holloway, Steven (Author)
- Nanez, Jose (Author)
- Seitz, Aaron R. (Author)
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (Contributor)
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Digital object identifier: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084010
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Identifier TypeInternational standard serial numberIdentifier Value1045-3830
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Identifier TypeInternational standard serial numberIdentifier Value1939-1560
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The article is published at http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0084010
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Holloway, S. R., Náñez, J. E., & Seitz, A. R. (2013). Word-Decoding as a Function of Temporal Processing in the Visual System. PLoS ONE, 8(12). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0084010