The correlation between speed and precision in time-limit tests

Abstract

Presents 2 models of the relationship between speed and precision. Model 1 postulates that for a given S precision is a monotonically linear function of decreasing speed. Another assumption for Model 1 is that precision is a uniparametric function of speed. In a study of 8- and 9-yr-old children, the Ss were asked to indicate a special grouping of dots among 25 designs, and were then motivated to increase their speed. The number of items selected increased enormously but the proportion of correct markings did not change. Model 2 is based on the concept that precision remains constant while speed varies. The covariance of precision and expected speed is zero. The factor of mental effort cannot be measured directly.