Abstract: A Multi-Level Model of Individual Differences in Speed/Accuracy Tradeoff (SATin)

Individuals performing an experimental cognitive task have a choice whether to favor accuracy, speed, or weight them both equally. Models of speed/ accuracy tradeoff have been proposed in the assessment literature (van der Linden, 2007 van der Linden, W. J. 2007. A hierarchical framework for modeling speed and accuracy on test items. Psychometrika, 72: 287–308. Crossref], Web of Science ®] , Google Scholar]) and experimental literature (Ratcliff &; Rouder, 1998 Ratcliff, R. and Rouder, J. N. 1998. Modeling response times for two-choice decisions.. Psychological Science, 9: 347–357. Crossref], Web of Science ®] , Google Scholar]). However, these models do not estimate individual differences in choice of speed/ accuracy tradeoff at between- and within-subjects levels.

The top of Figure 1 presents the equations and path diagram for the SATin model. Individual differences in speed/ accuracy tradeoff will be modeled at two levels with, 1) variability in Tradeoff (between-subject level, Level 2) and 2) variability in c (within-subject level, Level 1). An individual's Tradeoff factor score represents the individual's distributional position relative to others regarding whether they favor speed (values < 0), accuracy (values > 0), or neither (value = 0). A negative c indicates that the individual is trading off speed and accuracy for these particular trials, whereas a positive and zero c indicate the individual is not trading off.

Abstract: A Multi-Level Model of Individual Differences in Speed/Accuracy Tradeoff (SATin)

All authors

Dan R. Johnson, William H. Beasley &; David E. Bard

https://doi.org/10.1080/00273170802640475

Published online:

18 December 2008

FIGURE 1 SATin Model Diagram.