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| Int'l Symposium - Easy and Powerful: Developing Experimental Software with the Visual Basic Programming Language |
| Saturday, May 29, 2004 |
| 2:30 PM–3:50 PM |
| Fairfax A |
| Area: EAB; Domain: Applied Research |
| Chair: Francisco Cabello Luque (Universidad de la Rioja) |
| Abstract: . |
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| Computers Can Do That! – Expanding the Horizons of Experimental Research with the Visual Basic Programming Language |
| ROBERT WHELAN (National University of Ireland, Maynooth), Dermot Barnes-Holmes (National University of Ireland, Maynooth) |
| Abstract: The current paper outlines some features of Visual Basicä 6 (VB6) that researchers interested in the experimental analysis of human behavior may find useful. These include; a “generic” classical conditioning program, wherein several parameters can be varied (e.g., the intertrial interval, stimulus pairing order, the maximum repeated stimulus presentations, and the CS/US delay, amongst others). Another valuable feature is the ability to easily incorporate several Microsoftä utilities – such as sound and video players, and internet browser windows. For example, in a match-to-sample procedure, sounds can be produced when a certain button is pressed; or subjects can obtain access to the internet contingent on performance on a particular task. The subject can respond in several ways: including, dragging-and-dropping, moving a pointer along a sliding scale, key pressing, and clicking with a mouse. If an experiment incorporates a number of phases, mastery criterions can be set for each phase, and the computer can control progression through the experiment, reexposing the subject to earlier phases if necessary. External devices can also interact with VB6 programs. For example, a shock can be delivered when a particular stimulus appears on the screen, or the program can send an “event marker” to an ERPs recorder. |
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| Developing Mobile Computing Solutions for Behavior Analytic Research using Microsoft Embedded Visual Basic |
| JAMIE M. DAKE (Southern Illinois University, Carbondale), Mark R. Dixon (Southern Illinois University) |
| Abstract: Computerized technology is increasing at exponential rates. Behavior analytic researchers are finding themselves at the forefront of the next generation of the experimental apparatus for conducing research. It is critical for all behavior analysts to familiarize themselves with computer programming languages that will assist them in their research endeavors. The present paper will discuss the utility of Microsoft Embedded Visual Basic for designing behavior analytic software on portable/handheld computers such as Pocket PCs, and Cell Phones. Embedded Visual Basic is very similar to Microsoft's desktop computer programming solution "Visual Basic", but differs in a few key areas. We will showcase the Embedded Visual Basic programming language, and present examples of the program's utility in the creation of an individualized, portable data collection system for field-based data collection. We will also provide additional examples of simple human operant programs that can be created in virtually minutes with this highly powerful computer language. Interested attendees may wish to bring their own PC equipped with Embedded Visual Basic to enhance their learning experience. |
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| A Computerized Tool for the Categorization of Verbal Protocols. |
| SONIA BLASCO (Universidad de Valencia), Francisco Cabello Luque (Universidad de la Rioja), Denis P. O'Hora (University of Ulster) |
| Abstract: Typically, the protocol analysis methodology produces a large amount of data, in the form of task-concurrent verbalizations, that are later transcribed and categorized in order to obtain a workable set of data. The current paper will present a computerized tool that assists the researcher during this categorization process, and that is based in previous research in the area (e.g., Crutcher, Ericsson & Wichura, 1994). The computer program is a semi-automated tool in which protocols are randomly presented to raters (thus eliminating the problem of raters assigning categories based on previous selections, rather than on the protocol itself), together with additional information about the task (e.g., the arrangement of stimulus). Additionally, multiple raters may work on the same computer, which can then directly compare their ratings. Data are presented demonstrating that this tool enhances reliability among raters, reduces fatigue as they work with individual protocols at their own pace, and increases the validity of the categorization process. |
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| Computerized Voice Technologies Using Visual Basic |
| SONIA BLASCO (Universidad de Valencia), Francisco Cabello Luque (Universidad de la Rioja), Dermot Barnes-Holmes (National University of Ireland, Maynooth), Robert Whelan (National University of Ireland, Maynooth), Ian T. Stewart (Behaviour Analysis in Ireland) |
| Abstract: This paper will address the use of “voice technologies” in a PC platform using Visual Basic (VB). Specifically, it will be described how to program the computer to read a text aloud (speech production) and to recognize human speech (speech recognition) using the Microsoft Voice Engine – a freely available software. Among the issues that will be addressed, are the installation and configuration of the software, as well as some of the key features of both speech production capabilities and speech recognition capabilities. Some VB examples will be also be presented to illustrate how easy it is to implement these voice technologies for the development of computer-controlled experimental procedures. Finally, some uses for these technologies will be suggested, that constitute part of our ongoing research programs (e.g., the development of voice-controlled tasks, or the analysis of verbal behavior in real-time). |
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