Research article summary:

Steps toward building mathematical and computer models from cognitive task analyses.

Abstract Extract:
Typically, detailed quantitative and computer models of human operators performing real world tasks cannot easily be developed. We propose a technique that more easily allows for that development. We propose that when a cognitive task analysis has been ... (Full abstract text below)

Published 2003 in Journal: Hum Factors (Language : eng)

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1. Hum Factors. 2003 ;45(1):77-103

Steps toward building mathematical and computer models from cognitive task analyses.

Schweickert R, Fisher DL, Proctor RW

Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-1364, USA. swike@psych.purdue.edu

Typically, detailed quantitative and computer models of human operators performing real world tasks cannot easily be developed. We propose a technique that more easily allows for that development. We propose that when a cognitive task analysis has been carried out, a computer simulation model useful for approximations of task completion time is often within reach. The first step is to construct an activity network or order-of-processing diagram from the task analysis. Second, activity durations are found in the literature or approximated through multidimensional scaling. Finally, equations are written for calculating task completion time, or a program is written for simulations to estimate this time. Resulting models can be useful for optimizing system design. The approach is illustrated with an activity network by W. D. Gray, B. E. John, and M. E. Atwood (1993) for a telephone operator task. Simulations demonstrate the feasibility of using multidimensional scaling to obtain approximate activity durations. The approach is also illustrated with an order-of-processing diagram representing drivers reading roadside message displays. We point out that if a more detailed picture of unobservable mental processes in a task is needed, techniques have been developed for this through analysis of response times. Actual or potential applications of this research include system design, human-computer interaction, message comprehension, and simulation of information-processing tasks.

PMID : 12916583 [PubMed - Indexed for MEDLINE]

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Full Author Information

First Name	LastName	Initials
Richard	Schweickert	R
Donald L	Fisher	DL
Robert W	Proctor	RW

Affiliation: Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-1364, USA. swike@psych.purdue.edu

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