Strategic control over rate of processing in word reading: A computational investigation

It has recently been proposed that the time course of lexical processing can be influenced by strategic control factors in word reading. In the current study, a specific hypothesis of control, rate of processing, was implemented in three simulations of word reading. Simulation results showed that, by modulating the dynamic of processing, the control parameter input gain can account for effects of pressure for speed and stimulus blocking on naming performance. Results showed also that, to account for error patterns found in the tempo-naming task (Kello & Plaut, 2000), the influence of lexical knowledge must be strengthened relative to the standard dual-pathway architecture. Two methods of strengthening the influence of lexical knowledge are demonstrated: input gain used as a mechanism of route emphasis, or integration of the two commonly proposed pathways from orthography to phonology. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.