Visual Contrast Sensitivity Functions Obtained from Untrained Observers Using Tracking and Staircase Procedures.

Abstract

Two adaptive psychophysical procedures (tracking and yes-no staircase) for obtaining human contrast sensitivity functions (CSFs) were evaluated. The procedures were chosen based on their proven validity and our desire to evaluate the practical effects of stimulus transients, since tracking procedures traditionally employ gradual stimulus onsets whereas staircase procedures traditionally employ rapid stimulus onsets. The criteria for deciding which procedure was preferable for the rapid testing of large groups of untrained observers were consistency in the form of the measured CSFs across days, the subjective ease of the as judged by the observer, and the time required to obtain consistent results. Both procedures gave repeatable results across days; thus, the first CSF obtained from each subject could be taken as representative of the true CSF as determined by additional testing. However, the tracking procedure was judged easier to use by the present observers and required less time to perform. No interaction was found between any of these variables and the different stimulus onset parameters of the two procedures. Keywords: Visual acuity, Spatial distribution.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1987
Accession Number
ADA187715

Entities

People

  • David C. Hubbard
  • George A. Geri

Organizations

  • University of Dayton

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Analysis Of Variance
  • Biological Sciences
  • Classification
  • Data Analysis
  • Frequency
  • Human Resources
  • New York
  • Numbers
  • Perception
  • Security
  • Sine Waves
  • Standards
  • Training
  • United States
  • Visual Acuity

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Psychology

Readers

  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Vision Science/Vision Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience.