1987 - UFO Sensitivity Test

Magazine Overview This document, titled 'THE UFO/IFO SENSITIVITY TEST' and subtitled 'INVESTIGATOR'S INSTRUCTIONS', is a set of guidelines for individuals conducting a specific test developed by BUFORA. The copyright indicates it was produced by BUFORA Ltd in 1987. The document's primary purpose is to detail the methodology and protocols for administering a test designed to evaluate a witness's ability to perceive and identify unusual aerial phenomena.

Test Purpose and Rationale The test aims to assess a witness's capacity to identify ambiguous aerial phenomena by recording their responses to fifteen photographic stimuli. The investigator's role is to collect this data efficiently and accurately. The rationale behind the test is BUFORA's commitment to researching UFO reports, with this test being described as the first of its kind globally, holding significant potential for understanding UFO subjects. The results are intended to be used in conjunction with data from other tests to compare different types of UFO witnesses.

Administration Guidelines Strict adherence to a controlled and rigorous administration process is emphasized to exclude unintentional 'experimental effects'. Key instructions for the investigator include:

• Environment: Conduct the test in a quiet room free from distractions such as television or radio. Ensure no other witnesses, investigators, or friends/relatives are present, as they can influence the subject's concentration and behavior. The only exception is when testing a minor.
• Conduct: Avoid speaking or making non-verbal reactions during the test, as even smiling can affect the subject's response. If a house is unavailable, a car in a quiet location can be used.
• Subject Consent and Rights: Before starting, explain that the test is voluntary and can be stopped at any time by the subject. Inform them about the test's inclusion under the 1984 Data Protection Act, ensuring their results will be kept confidential and not shared with third parties without written permission.
• Postponement: If a subject appears unwilling or lacks concentration, it is better to postpone the test. Do not rush the process, as accurate data recording is prioritized over speed.
• Data Integrity: Never alter recorded responses after the test, even if the subject changes their mind or believes they performed poorly.
• Subject Information: Offer to provide the test results to the subject at a later date if they are interested.

Test Materials and Procedure The test requires fifteen ambiguous photographs (numbered 1 to 15), a clean table or desk, and approximately ten minutes of the subject's time.

The Test Method involves:

1. Introduction: Explain that the test begins by turning over the first photograph and that the subject should state what they believe it shows. If unsure, they should say 'DON'T KNOW'. Reporting all thoughts, even if unsure, is encouraged. Frequent guessing is considered significant information.
2. Investigator's Role: The investigator is not allowed to talk during the test, which is a requirement and not a sign of disapproval.
3. Photograph Classification: The fifteen photographs are grouped into three classes: EASY (1-5), INTERMEDIATE (6-10), and DIFFICULT (11-15).
4. Presentation Order: Photographs must be presented in a class order (e.g., INTERMEDIATE, then EASY, then DIFFICULT). To ensure proper statistical analysis, this order must be rotated for different subjects. The document provides an example of rotation for six subjects, aiming for an equal distribution of sequences.
5. Sub-Class Order: Within each class, the order of photographs is not critical, but they should be shuffled randomly after being sorted into their respective classes. The example given for the EASY class is Photo Nos 4, 1, 5, 3, 2.
6. Response Recording: When the subject is ready, turn over the first card. Record the subject's responses, noting keywords. If a response is not given within 30 seconds, mark '?'. If the subject says 'I don't know', record 'DON'T KNOW'. Verbatim transcription is unnecessary.
7. Response Time: Estimate and record the time between the photograph being turned over and the subject's first response. Initially, timing with a watch is recommended, but subjects may be intimidated.
8. 'Exotic' Terms: If the subject uses terms with an extraterrestrial connotation (e.g., 'Spacecraft', 'Alien', 'Martians', 'Ray Guns', or similar), a specific box should be ticked.
9. Recognition: After the subject's response, pause briefly before recording. If the subject recognizes a photo (e.g., 'those funny clouds over Buenos Aires'), a specific box should be ticked. This is rare, but important if a photo gains significant publicity.
10. Completion: At the end of the test, questions 1 to 4 may be ticked as required. Question 2 might be best completed after the visit.
11. Subject Details: Ensure the subject's name and age, along with the investigator's name, are accurately recorded. Failure to do so will render the results unusable for BUFORA's research.
12. Post-Test Explanation: If the subject is interested, show them each photo and explain what it depicts. However, to allow for potential longitudinal studies, avoid explaining the photos unless specifically asked by the subject.
13. Gratitude and Submission: Thank the subject for their cooperation. Record if they wish to know the test results. Keep a copy of the responses and submit the original to the relevant BUFORA contact (RIC or NIC). Results should ideally be available within a month of submission.

Scoring and Evaluation The test instructions also include an explanation of each photograph and a method for summing scores. However, the final score evaluation must be performed by the same person to ensure consistency and compatibility.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The document's recurring themes revolve around rigorous scientific methodology, data integrity, and the importance of controlled observation in the study of anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance is professional, systematic, and focused on objective data collection for research purposes. BUFORA positions itself as a serious research organization dedicated to understanding UFO reports through systematic investigation and data analysis, emphasizing the need for standardized procedures and confidentiality.