Metrical and nonmetrical representations of temporal patterns (original) (raw)

Abstract

Temporal patterns can be classified into two types: those that are conceivable in terms of a metrical framework and those that are not. In this context, a metrical framework is seen as a mental time scale used in specifying the temporal structure of a pattern. Three experiments are reported in which subjects produced or reproduced temporal patterns. The first shows that in spontaneous production subjects use intervals whose durations are in a 2:1 ratio, irrespective of the structure of the pattern. From the two other experiments, in which subjects reproduced temporal patterns with varying interval ratios, it is concluded that: (1) patterns not conceivable in a metrical framework are represented (and consequently reproduced) poorly, unless the intervals are 2:1 related, and (2) patterns conceivable in a metrical framework are represented and reproduced accurately. Implications for a theory of temporal patterns are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

1. Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Nijmegen, P.O Box 9104, 6500, HE Nijmegen, The Netherlands
   Peter J. Essens & Drik-Jan Povel

Authors

1. Peter J. Essens
2. Drik-Jan Povel

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Essens, P.J., Povel, DJ. Metrical and nonmetrical representations of temporal patterns.Perception & Psychophysics 37, 1–7 (1985). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03207132

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• Received: 24 July 1984
• Accepted: 26 November 1984
• Issue date: January 1985
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03207132

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