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Total Recall: Testing the Accuracy of Eyewitness Testimony

CSEF · 2019 Cognitive Science (Junior Division Only)

Lydia M. Richards · Twin Lakes Christian School, Aptos, Santa Cruz County

Overview

Objectives This experiment will test a person's ability to recall specific details during both expected and unexpected events. Methods Test subjects, two actors, script and props for actors, questionnaire. Actors performed script on two different days. Test subjects recorded details of unexpected and expected events, both immediately after the event and 40 minutes later. Results The data showed that when test subjects anticipated an upcoming event, they remembered more details of the event. During unexpected events, test subjects recalled either very few significant details, incorrect details, or no details at all. Conclusions It is concluded that when an unexpected event occurs, people have difficulty remembering specific details of the event immediately after, and 40 minutes later.

Summary statement

People have difficulty remembering specific details about an unexpected event.

Help received

I designed the experiment, questionnaire, script, and graphs myself. Two friends served as actors. My father helped me process the data collected.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2019 Cognitive Science (Junior Division Only) · Entry J0714

Resources

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