Graphical perception is the visual decoding of the quantitative and qualitative information encoded on graphs. Some recent theoretical/experimental investigations of graphical perception are described, identifying certain elementary graphical-perception tasks that are performed in the visual decoding of quantitative information from graphs.…

Discusses techniques for studying large-scale brain activity, insights from computational modeling, and cognitive processes that could lead to a better understanding of cognition. Describes interactions between psychology and physiology in perception, structural levels of organization in the nervous system, techniques and research strategies. (RT)

Reports effects of context that are entirely perceptual. Visual discrimination was enhanced when line segments were flashed in a region that was perceived as a figure. Discrimination was substantially degraded when the same region was seen as ground although the physical stimulus remained identical throughout figure-ground reversals. (Author/JN)

Discusses research related to identifying early predictors of school success or intelligence. Reports on a study that suggested correlations exist between how babies process information (visual attentiveness) in the first six months of life and the child's performance on intelligence tests in school. (ML)

Explains the hierarchic structure of the mammalian visual system. Proposes a model in which feedback pathways serve to modify sensory stimuli in ways that enhance and complete sensory input patterns. Investigates the functioning of the system through computer simulations. (ML)

Summarizes the anatomical, physiological, and psychological evidence related to the primate visual system. States that comparison of perceptual abilities with the electrophysiological properties of neurons may help deduce functions of visual areas. (RT)