Task Switching for Visual Search in Healthy Adults
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to understand how people switch between different types of visual tasks and how their brains process these tasks. Researchers seek to determine how well participants focus on various visual information, such as finding targets or ignoring distractions. Participants will complete exercises testing attention and visual searching skills using a method called Within-Subjects Attentional Information. This study is designed for individuals with normal or corrected vision and normal color vision. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to foundational research that could enhance understanding of visual attention processes.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for participants?
Research has shown that switching tasks in visual search activities, like the one in this study, is safe for participants. In similar studies, participants have switched between tasks requiring attention and visual searching without harmful effects. These tasks typically involve finding specific items while ignoring distractions, a common practice in cognitive research.
No evidence indicates that these visual search tasks cause significant negative effects. Participants generally tolerate them well because they involve mental exercises rather than physical treatments. The research primarily aims to understand how people process visual information and manage attention, which is a normal brain function.
Therefore, based on current evidence, joining a study like this should not raise any safety concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores new ways to enhance visual search skills by focusing on how attention can be switched effectively. Unlike typical approaches that might rely on long-term training or pharmaceutical interventions, this study looks at the immediate effects of task switching on attention. By understanding these mechanisms, scientists hope to develop techniques that improve how quickly and accurately people can find visual information, potentially leading to better cognitive performance in everyday tasks.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for visual search?
Research shows that switching between tasks can affect performance in visual searches. Studies have found that the demands of one task can impact performance on a new, unrelated task. This carry-over effect might explain why people make more mistakes or take longer when switching tasks. While harder tasks can change the speed of visual searches, they don't necessarily limit the amount of attention people can give. These findings suggest that understanding task switching can enhance knowledge of how attention works during visual searches. In this trial, all participants will receive interventions related to Within-Subjects Attentional Information to explore these effects further.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Nancy Carlisle, PhD
Principal Investigator
Lehigh University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy adults with normal or corrected-to-normal vision and the ability to see colors properly. It's not suitable for those who don't meet these visual requirements.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Testing
Participants engage in task switching between tasks requiring different attentional templates during visual search
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any immediate effects or feedback after testing
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Within-Subjects Attentional Information
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Lehigh University
Lead Sponsor