Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 2024
College
Sciences and Mathematics, College of
Department
Psychological Science, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Michael Oliver
Presentation Type
Metadata Only
Abstract
The rise in technology over recent years has led to a dramatic increase in distractions (Miller et al., 2020). Additionally, it has been well-established that visual and audio stimuli can make up the majority of these distractors on working memory. Working memory provides temporary storage and active manipulation of information that requires simultaneous processing (Baddeley, 1992). However, little research has experimentally tested to see if there is a significant difference between audio and visual stimuli on working memory. The purpose of the present study was to examine how an addition of audio or visual stimuli impacts performance on working memory tasks and to test whether there is a difference between the two stimuli added. Participants were asked to complete two computerized working memory tasks and were randomly assigned to experience audio, visual, or no distractions during the process. The expected results are that participants will have lower performance on working memory tasks after introducing stimuli and an addition of visual stimuli will significantly lower performance compared to an addition of audio stimuli. This study supports previous literature highlighting the impact that distractions, particularly visual distractions, can have on cognitive abilities. While eliminating distractions is not always possible, it is important to remember that maintaining an environment with minimal distractions is ideal for optimizing one’s performance.
Recommended Citation
Mohamed, Suad H.; Khamphouvong, Gavin; Zobel, Bailey A.; and Tiggs, Kayley Erin, "The Effects of Audio and Visual Stimuli on Working Memory" (2024). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 196.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/196
