Error finding: I strongly suspect that people are better at finding errors if they know there is an error.
For example, suppose we did an experiment where we randomized computer programmers into two groups. Both groups are given computer code and asked to try and find a mistake. The first group is told that there is definitely one coding error. The second group is told that there might be an error, but there also might not be one. My guess is that, even if you give both groups the same amount of time to look, group 1 would have a higher error identification success rate.
Does anyone here know of a reference to a study that has looked at that issue? Is there a name for it?
I suppose what I was getting at was asking whether it is something that you have enough interest in or ideas about that you would like to collaborate on.
Error finding: I strongly suspect that people are better at finding errors if they know there is an error.
For example, suppose we did an experiment where we randomized computer programmers into two groups. Both groups are given computer code and asked to try and find a mistake. The first group is told that there is definitely one coding error. The second group is told that there might be an error, but there also might not be one. My guess is that, even if you give both groups the same amount of time to look, group 1 would have a higher error identification success rate.
Does anyone here know of a reference to a study that has looked at that issue? Is there a name for it?
Thanks
Prediction: Group 1 would also have a higher false-positive rate.
I know of no such study, and have failed to find one in a quick literature search.
I occasionally run behavioral psych studies, and this seems like a good candidate. How would you feel about me adapting this into a study?
That would be great. I’d love to see the results.
I suppose what I was getting at was asking whether it is something that you have enough interest in or ideas about that you would like to collaborate on.
I’d be glad to discuss it.