Retrieval processes in recognition

Abstract

Retrieval processes in the long-term recognition of well organized material showed the expected organizational effects on "slow" recognition responses. Ss sorted 100 words into two to seven categories until a stable organization was achieved. The data showed the usual correlations between organization (number of categories used) and recall and recognition. Recognition tests a week after the sorting task revealed no differences between Ss using many or few categories for the "fast" recognition responses, defined as the faster 50% of each S's latency distribution. The organizational effect was clearly evident for the "slow" 50% of the responses. The data support the retrieval check hypothesis in recognition under the assumption that retrieval operations take additional time during the recognition process.