Paper Info
Title
Effects of Sensory Modality and Task Duration on Performance, Workload, and Stress in Sustained Attention
Abstract
The workload and stress associated with a 40-min vigilance task were examined under conditions wherein observers monitored an auditory or a visual display for changes in signal duration. Global workload scores fell in the midrange of the NASA Task Load Index, with scores on the Frustration subscale increasing linearly over time. These effects were unrelated to the sensory modality of signals. However, sensory modality was a significant moderator variable for stress. Observers became more stressed over time as indexed by responses to the Dundee Stress State Questionnaire, with evidence of recovery in the auditory but not the visual condition toward the end of the watch. This result and the finding that signal detection accuracy - although equated for difficulty under alerted conditions - favored the auditory mode, indicate that display modality and time on task should be considered carefully in the design of operations requiring sustained attention in order to enhance performance and reduce stress. Actual or potential applications of this research include domains in which monitoring is a crucial part, such as baggage screening, security operations, medical monitoring, and power plant operations.
Year
DOI
Venue
2004
10.1518/hfes.46.2.219.37334
HUMAN FACTORS
Field
DocType
Volume
Social psychology,Moderation,Simulation,Workload,Psychology,Human error,Vigilance (psychology),Cognition,Perception,Stimulus modality,Alertness
Journal
46
Issue
ISSN
Citations 
2
0018-7208
23
PageRank 
References 
Authors
3.25
3
7
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
James L. Szalma18212.27
Joel S. Warm219929.80
Gerald Matthews316220.83
William N. Dember48616.78
Ernest M. Weiler5233.59
Ashley Meier6233.25
F. Thomas Eggemeier7233.59