Encoding 'regular' and 'random' sequences of views of novel three-dimensional objects

When we look at an object as we move or the object moves, our visual system is presented with a sequence of different views of the object. It has been suggested that such regular temporal sequences of views of objects contain information that can aid in the process of representing and recognising ob jects. We examined whether seeing a series of perspective views of objects in sequence led to more efficient recognition than seeing the same views of objects but presented in a random order. Participants studied images of 20 novel three-dimensional objects rotating in depth under one of two study c onditions. In one study condition, participants viewed an ordered sequence of views of objects that was assumed to mimic important aspects of how we n ormally encounter objects. In the other study condition, participants were presented the same object views, but in a random order. It was expected tha t studying a regular sequence of views would lead to more efficient recogni tion than studying a random presentation of object views. Although subseque nt recognition accuracy was equal for the two groups, differences in reacti on time between the two study groups resulted. Specifically, the random stu dy group responded reliably faster than the sequence study group. Some poss ible encoding differences between the two groups are discussed.