A Dynamic Neural Field Model of Visual Working Memory and Change Detection

• Published in: Psychological science Vol. 20; no. 5; pp. 568 - 577
• Main Authors: Johnson, Jeffrey S., Spencer, John P., Luck, Steven J., Schöner, Gregor
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA Wiley Periodicals 01.05.2009; SAGE Publications; SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
• Subjects: Architectural models; Architecture; Attention - physiology; Change detection; Cognition & reasoning; Color Perception - physiology; Discrimination, Psychological - physiology; Distance Perception - physiology; Encoding; Experimentation; Eyes & eyesight; Female; Humans; Interneurons - physiology; Male; Memory; Memory, Short-Term - physiology; Modeling; Neural Inhibition - physiology; Neural Networks, Computer; Neurons; Neurons - physiology; Neuropsychology; Orientation - physiology; Pattern Recognition, Visual - physiology; Sensory perception; Sensory Thresholds - physiology; Short term memory; Simulations; Synaptic Transmission - physiology; Visual Cortex - physiology; Visual Fields - physiology; Visual perception; Visual Perception - physiology; Visual task performance; Working memory
• ISSN: 0956-7976; 1467-9280; 1467-9280
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9280.2009.02329.x

Efficient visually guided behavior depends on the ability to form, retain, and compare visual representations for objects that may be separated in space and time. This ability relies on a short-term form of memory known as visual working memory. Although a considerable body of research has begun to shed light on the neurocognitive systems subserving this form of memory, few theories have addressed these processes in an integrated, neurally plausible framework. We describe a layered neural architecture that implements encoding and maintenance, and links these processes to a plausible comparison process. In addition, the model makes the novel prediction that change detection will be enhanced when metrically similar features are remembered. Results from experiments probing memory for color and for orientation were consistent with this novel prediction. These findings place strong constraints on models addressing the nature of visual working memory and its underlying mechanisms.