Presents an introduction to the study of images of blacks in visual media and considers some of the problems involved in applying visual literacy ideas to the specific area of race and racism. (MH)

The predictability of individual differences in the ability to reason about dynamic displays from tests using static displays was studied in 170 adults given paper-and-pencil and computer controlled tests. Several multivariate analyses indicated that the ability to reason about dynamic motion was distinct from the ability to reason about static…

Describes subjective-contour illusions and gives explanations for perception of shape and brightness in these figures. Supports cognitive mechanisms rather than psychological mechanisms. Gives examples of subjective-contour illusions and summarizes explanations of other psychologists with regard to this topic. (CW)

Examines development of processing speed in three backward masking studies, where presentation of second stimulus figure (mask) within a critical time interval from arrival of first figure (target) interrupts processing of first. Results indicate that processing time increases until early adolescence; changes are less marked after 13 years of age.…

A model of mental representations is developed and shown to provide a framework for interpreting research. The content of awareness is characterized as a model of the world capable of simulating future events, anticipating present events, and thereby formulating appropriate actions. Properties of awareness and of underlying processes are…

Reviews the literature dealing with the loci and parameters of visual selective attention. It is maintained that input selection can be found at several points in the course of processing. Specifically, a case is made for very early perceptual selection, called perceptual tuning, which can be based on higher-order conceptual or structural stimulus…

This study investigated whether students' memory retention rate improved when they were provided with blue ink printed material. A pretest, treatment, posttest with control group design was used. The participants were 93 10th and 11th grade students in algebra and geometry courses, and there were 2 classes in each course. The treatment lasted for…

This paper discusses the role of digital technology within the cognitive revolution of the perception of images. It analyzes the traditional values placed on images as a source of cognition. These values are discussed in terms of the ethical and social issues raised by the use of digital image manipulation in so far as the digital era is falsely…

The effectiveness of testing instruments for field dependence-independence in spatial-visual ability in children is questioned, since they may not measure the same dimensions as those for older children and adults. The effects of training on performance of spatial-visual tasks are discussed, with a warning to monitor training programs carefully.…

In three experiments, this study addressed two basic questions about the detection of multiletter patterns: (1) How is the detection of a multiletter pattern related to the detection of its individual components? (2) How is the detection of a sequence of letters influenced by the observer's familiarity with that sequence? (Author/BW)

Four studies showed that a substantial proportion of their subjects, aged four to seven years, responded as if elements "out of sight" in pictures were either nonexistent or imcomplete. Termed "literalism," this mode of responding was related to age but little influenced by training or another form of structured experience.…

Aesthetic sensitivity is present in children to varying degrees, but creativity emerges and develops with intelligent assessment of aesthetic experiences. (JD)

The SeLective Attention Model (SLAM) performs visual selective attention tasks and demonstrates that object selection and attribute selection are both necessary and sufficient for visual selection. The SLAM is described, particularly with regard to its ability to represent an individual subject performing filtering tasks. (TJH)