The use of dual task paradigms in memory research : a methodological assessment and an evaluation of effort and a measure of levels of processing.

Results from dual task experiments have often used to make inferences concerning memorial process. However. many dual task experiments are based on Invalid methodological assumptions. Three major assumptions which are implicitly assumed by current deal task memory research are shown to be inappropriate. Criteria which should be met in dual task experiments that draw inferences from secondary task decrements are discussed.