Project Description
Image naming paradigms are often used to better understand cognitive-linguistic processes in people with aphasia for whom word-finding difficulties contribute substantially to communication impairment. However, the image naming process is not equivalent to the process of word retrieval, as image-related characteristics need to be encoded in addition to linguistic characteristics associated with lexical and sublexical processes. Therefore, having norms for physical as well as psycholinguistic stimulus properties of images to be named is critical when using image sets in behavioral experiments. Sets of normed ecologically valid photographs are very limited, and even fewer are normed on older adults. This is problematic as age-related differences are commonly reported for image naming. Older adults tend to name pictures less quickly and/or accurately than younger adults (e.g. Au et al., 1995; Connor, Spiro, Obler, & Albert, 2004; Feyereisen, 1997; Mortensen, Meyer, & Humphrey, 2006 ; Spieler & Balota 2000). The purpose of this study is to collect normative image naming data with older adults for use in behavioral psycholinguistic experimental paradigms. Normative data for visual stimulus characteristics as well as naming response times and naming accuracy data was collected on 80 individuals ages 50-80 years of age. This is the final phase of this project. Students play a critical role in the analysis of the data.
Tasks and Responsibilites
Review and judge the accuracy of image naming responses • Code the responses according to a coding scheme of subordinate, lateral, supraordinate responses in order to identify target responses, acceptable responses and unacceptable responses. • Learn how to manage and save the data in accordance with established IRB procedures. • Communicate regularly with your mentor and will collaborate with researchers from MCW during regular virtual meetings • Participate in the preparation of the data for submissions to national and international conferences