Human Time Estimation: On Differences between Methods

Abstract

Using the same 8 standard intervals (ranging from 300 to 1000 msec. in 100-msec. steps), 16 male Ss made reproductions, verbal estimates, and productions in randomized blocks of trials according to a fixed complex order (sequence of methods, presentation of anchors). After presentation of anchors, significant differences between methods were still in evidence with respect to accuracy, intra-subject variability, and intersubject variability. The reliability of verbal estimates and of productions was decreased upon presentation of anchors, but in all methods, reliability increased over blocks of trials. Reliability of estimations and productions was significantly correlated with relative intersubject variability. As to association between judgments, verbal estimates and productions showed negative correlation while intercorrelations involving reproductions were not significant. A method involving a random-pertrial sequence of methods and standards is proposed for further studies.