Dr. Ulrich Pomper (University of Vienna, AT)

Beyond space, objects or features: Directing attention to a sensory modality or a moment in time

January 25, 2018 | 5 pm

In basic psychology research, selective attention is most frequently investigated as a function of space (e.g. following a cue to the left vs. right) or object features (e.g. responding to red vs. blue targets). However, in everyday life, selective attention to a sensory modality (e.g. covertly shadowing a nearby conversation at a cocktail party) or a moment in time (e.g. waiting for the traffic lights to turn green) is equally common and important.
In this talk, I will introduce some general principles of these mechanisms of intersensory and temporal attention, before presenting some of my own related work. Specific emphasis will be given on patterns of oscillatory neural activity as measured with EEG or MEG (e.g. in the alpha-band, 8-13 Hz), which reflect attention related changes in neural processing.  
I will end with a brief outlook on exciting future research questions, as well as potential practical applications resulting from studies in this field.

Organiser:
Department of Basic Psychological Research and Research Methods (EVA Lab)
Location:
Faculty of Psychology (Lecture hall G, 2nd floor, left wing)