To prevent the subjects in their experiment from rehearsing information, Peterson and Peterson
A) used a partial report procedure.
B) taught their subjects to use mnemonic devices incorrectly.
C) used long lists of nonsense syllables.
D) had subjects count backwards.
E) reduced the amount of time between the presentation of the material and recall.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Peterson and Peterson had subjects count backwards by threes from a specified number to prevent rehearsal of information in their experiment on the duration of short-term memory. This technique was used to ensure that the subjects' attention was diverted away from the to-be-remembered material, making it difficult for them to rehearse the information and thus testing the natural duration of short-term memory without rehearsal.

To Prevent the Subjects in Their Experiment from Rehearsing Information