bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Transmission Quality in Mobile Telecommunication Systems Using Conversation Tests
Authors: Karis Demetrios
Published: January 2012

Mobile and wireless telecommunication systems are expanding rapidly, and many new systems are in development. To address the impact on speech communication, this paper describes a new conversation-based test of transmission quality designed to be sensitive to degradations common in mobile systems. An experiment using this conversation test added roundtrip delays of 0, 600 and 1200 ms to the transmission path. Three types of dependent variables were collected: subjective ratings of quality and listening effort, measures of conversational dynamics, and scores of task performance. Although neither the subjective ratings or task performance varied across delay conditions, there was a significant effect on one measure of conversational dynamics, the number of interruptions. Arguments are presented that changes in conversational events may be superior to traditional subjective measures for evaluating mobile systems.
Fingertip Forces While Using three Different Keyboards
Authors: Rempel David , Gerson Jack
Published: January 2012

The relationship of chronic musculoskeletal disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist tendinitis, to prolonged alphanumeric keyboard use is controversial. Known risk-factors for these disorders, such as repetition of task, forceful exertions, awkward joint postures, direct mechanical pressure, and prolonged constrained posture, may be applicable to keyboard use. In this study fingertip forces were measured for 10 typists using three alphanumeric keyboards that differed only in their key force and displacement characteristics. While subjects typed, peak fingertip force was collected for each keystroke using strain gauge load cells. The mean peak fingertip forces applied by all subjects for all keys for the three keyboards were 193 gm, 182 gm and 220 gm; significantly different means. The 18% reduction in fingertip force in the second keyboard compared with the third is attributed to a higher minimum force of activation and a higher force at total key travel in the third keyboard. This study indicates that keyboard key force-displacement characteristics can be altered to reduce the fingertip forces applied by typists and theoretically this may reduce the risk of developing chronic musculoskeletal disorders.
Integrating Cursor Control into the Computer Keyboard
Authors: Gill Rick , Gordon Sallie , Dean Steven , McGehee Daniel
Published: January 2012

The objective of this research was to develop and test an integrated cursor control and clicking device called a KeyMouse. The bottom of a single key on a standard keyboard was instrumented with pressure transducers. When the key was fully depressed pressure variations across the surface of the key, caused by a rolling motion of the finger, could be used to control the cursor much like a traditional mouse. A usability study was conducted to determine the optimum layout and configuration of the KeyMouse and its associated click keys. Both subjective preference and performance data revealed a strong preference for a two handed configuration with cursor control via the dominant hand and operation of the click keys with the other.
Knowledge Acquisition Techniques: A Case Study in the Design of A Reference Materials Access Tool
Authors: Smith Philip J. , Normore Lorraine F. , Denning Rebecca
Published: January 2012

It is popular to talk about using a problem-driven approach to guide the design of computer-based tools. It is not always so easy, however, to determine just what the significant problems are within some existing work environment. A thorough cognitive task analysis can provide valuable guidance in understanding the nature of existing problems and in designing solutions. In this paper, the use of multiple sources of data are explored in completing such a task analysis in order to design tools to support individuals preparing input for a full-text database.
A Pilot Evaluation of the Use of a Decision Support Center for Application Requirements Gathering
Authors: Lanzetta Thomas M.
Published: January 2012

Groups of individuals working together effectively and efficiently are key to successful organizations, and ways in which new technologies can be exploited to support groups at work are being explored. The Decision Support Center (DSC) provides one approach to enhancing group productivity. The DSC consists of a series of networked PCs running software programs (Team Focus) that provide automated support for group communication and decision making. The present evaluation was designed to provide some initial data on the potential benefits that may be realized by utilizing the DSC in the development of new products. Output from traditional methods employed during the requirements phase of the AD/M process was compared to output from a parallel Decision Support Center (DSC) requirements gathering session. The results indicated that the DSC session, in addition to validating already known system requirements, generated a substantial number of new requirements. The results provide sufficient evidence to warrant further exploration of areas in which utilization of the DSC may prove valuable.
Transfer between Icon Sets and Ratings of Icon Concreteness and Appropriateness
Authors: Stammers RB , Hoffman J
Published: January 2012

Two studies are reported on the usability of icons. Firstly, an experiment was carried out to investigate the transfer of performance between sets of icons for different computer functions. The aim was to determine whether users would benefit from common underlying elements within concrete icon sets, compared with unrelated abstract icons. A cross-over study was employed whereby subjects performed an icon identification task with one set of icons (a concrete or abstract learning set) and then transferred to another set of icons (a concrete or abstract transfer set). It was hypothesized that transferring from concrete to concrete icons would yield the best results due to the use of repeated elements in the concrete sets. Identification time data did not produce significant results to support the hypothesis. Significant results were yielded from the error data, this demonstrated the superiority of concrete icons, but no advantage came from previous experience with a concrete set. A second study examined the rating of the icons used in the first study in terms of concreteness and appropriateness. Appropriateness was found to be a reasonable predictor of icon identification time.
Display Format and Highlighting Validity Effects on Search Performance Using Complex Visual Displays
Authors: Donner Kimberly A. , McKay Tim , O'Brien Kevin M. , Rudisill Marianne
Published: January 2012

Research examining display format and highlight validity (Tullis, 1984; Fisher & Tan, 1989) have shown that these factors affect visual display search; however, these studies have been conducted on small, artificial alphanumeric displays. The present study manipulated these variables, applying them to realistic, complex Space Shuttle displays. A 2 (display type: Orbit Maneuver Execute, Relative Navigation) × 2 (display format: current, reformatted [following human-computer interface design principles]) × 3 (highlighting validity: valid, invalid, no-highlight) within-subjects analysis of variance found significant main effects of these variables on search time and a significant format by highlight interaction. Search through the current, poorly-formatted displays benefitted from valid application of highlight, and showed no cost of invalid highlight. Reformatted displays demonstrated neither reliable cost nor benefit of highlight application. Significant correlations were found between observed search times and search times predicted by Tullis' Display Analysis Program (1986): the relationship was highest with non-highlighted displays and was less predictive with valid and invalid highlight applications. Issues discussed include the enhancement of search through format and highlighting, and the necessity to consider several factors when predicting search performance.
Placement of Menu Choices
Authors: Allan Robert W. , Bailey Robert W. , McIntyre Gregory S. , Bozza Michelle
Published: January 2012

These studies suggest that for certain menus there may be performance advantages in having choices placed on the right side of options. This holds for measures of both speed and accuracy. However, for some menus there is a slight advantage for having choices on the left side. Accuracy levels tended to be better with choices positioned to the right of options. The results suggest that practitioners should consider the relative positioning of options and choices in the design of user interfaces.
Iterative Searching in an Online Database
Authors: Dumais Susan T. , Schmitt Deborah G.
Published: January 2012

An experiment examined how people use an online retrieval system. Subjects solved general topical search problems using a database containing the full text of news articles (e.g., find articles about the “ Background of the new prime minister of Great Britain”). Time, accuracy and content of the searches were recorded. Of particular interest was the use of two iterative search methods available in the interface - a Lookup function that allowed users to explicitly specify an alternative query; and a LikeThese function that could be used to automatically generate a new query using articles the user marked as relevant. Results showed that subjects could easily use both query reformulation methods. Subjects generated much more effective LikeThese searches than Lookup searches. An analysis of individual subject differences suggests that the LikeThese method is more accessible to a wide range of users.
Model-Based Interface Design for Transaction-Processing Tasks
Authors: Henneman Richard L. , Inderrieden Michael , Benson Charlene
Published: January 2012

Characteristics of transaction-processing tasks are described in the context of retail point-of-sale systems (cash registers). Proliferation of functionality coupled with a lack of emphasis on interface design have led to systems that require extensive training and result in high error rates. A state-action representation of a transaction-processing task is described. This approach to task modeling is appropriate given the deterministic nature of transaction-processing tasks. To illustrate this approach, a task model for a particular retail point-of-sale system and an interface design based on this model are described. A preliminary analysis of subjects using the new interface suggests that the model-based design will result in significant reductions in training time and error rates.
Performance as a Function of Communication in Military Vehicle Simulators
Authors: Whitaker Leslie A.
Published: January 2012

A research program is being conducted to quantify the effects of communication clarity (speech intelligibility) on task performance. Two studies have been completed to date. In each study, military crew performance was measured at varied levels of speech intelligibility. Crews performed navigation and gunnery tasks in simulators. In general, task performance decreased as intelligibility decreased. This decrement was more pronounced when the task being performed was complex. On the basis of data collected from these studies, a model has been developed to describe the influence of communication workload on performance. The model's parameters are task difficulty and speech intelligibility.
Selective Auditory - Visual Interference Effects in a Dual Task Paradigm: Implications for Assessing Individual Differences
Authors: Payne David G.
Published: January 2012

Three experiments are reported that tested predictions from a multiple resource framework for selective patterns of interference in a visual - auditory dual task paradigm. Subjects performed an auditory memory search task both alone and in conjunction with several visual information processing tasks. In Experiment 1 the level of speech intelligibility in the memory search task did not affect performance in an unstable tracking task. In Experiments 2 and 3 speech intelligibility did affect performance in a spatial processing task and a mathematical reasoning task. These results are discussed in terms of their relevance for designing a test battery to identify individuals likely to be affected by changes in speech intelligibility.
Toward a Conceptualization of Human Error in Teletherapy
Authors: Henriksen Kerm , Kaye Ronald D. , Morisseau Dolores S.
Published: January 2012

The present study, sponsored by the Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, is the first part of a series of human factors evaluations for identifying the root causes of human error in the practice of radiation oncology therapy or teletherapy. The paper introduces a general framework for incorporating the major tasks of the study and for understanding the broad array of factors and their relationships underlying human error in the teletherapeutic setting.
Assessing User Compliance with Procedures for Soft Contact Lens Care
Authors: Callan James R. , Kelly Richard T. , Cardinal Blair F. , Gwynne John W. , Tolbert Margaret T. , Sawyer C. Richard
Published: January 2012

Many eye health problems associated with soft contact lens wear can be traced to user error in lens care. This paper describes a human factors research project undertaken by the Food and Drug Administration to evaluate and improve labeling for soft contact lens care. An experimental methodology was developed that permitted contact lens cleaning performance to be evaluated in terms of performance, instructional, and motivational factors. In the first study, experienced soft contact lens wearers were observed while they cleaned and disinfected their lenses. Errors were observed for all aspects of lens care, including failing to understand correct procedures, failing to follow instructions, improperly maintaining lens care system components, and mismatching components from incompatible care systems. Prototype patient instruction booklets that were designed to eliminate these errors were then prepared. In a second study, the prototype booklets were tested to determine how well they conveyed lens care information to new contact lens wearers. Performance measures indicated that the prototype booklets exerted measurable improvements on lens care compliance.
Evaluating the Behavioral Effectiveness of a Multi-Modal Voice Warning Sign in a Visually Cluttered Environment
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Rashid Raheel , Clarke Steven W. , Kalsher Michael J.
Published: January 2012

This research examined the effects of a multi-modal warning sign on compliance behavior. Participants followed a set of printed instructions to perform a chemistry task that involved measuring and mixing disguised (nonhazardous) chemicals. Whether participants wore protective equipment as directed by the warning was measured. The environment around the sign was either visually cluttered or uncluttered. In some conditions, pictorials, a voice warning, and/or a flashing strobe light were added. The results showed that compliance was significantly greater when the warning was presented in an uncluttered environment compared to a cluttered environment. The results also showed that the presence of a voice warning produced a strong and reliable increase in compliance compared to conditions without a voice warning. No statistically reliable effects of pictorials or strobe were found though the results did show a trend of greater compliance when they were present. In addition, compliance was positively related to memory of the warning, perception of hazard, and reported carefulness. The results call attention to the importance of the context in which a warning is placed, and the potential benefits of voice warnings.
Team Interaction Skills Evaluation Criteria for Nuclear Power Plant Control Room Operators
Authors: Montgomery Joseph , Gaddy Catherine , Toquam Jody
Published: January 2012

Previous research has shown the value of good team interaction skills to group performance, yet little progress has been made in measuring such skills. Dimensions of team interaction skills developed in an earlier study (Montgomery, et al., 1990) were extensively revised and cast into a Behaviorally Anchored Rating scales (BARS) and a Behavioral Frequency scale format. Rating data were collected using training instructors at a nuclear plant, who rated videotape scenarios of control room performance and later rated control room crews during requalification training. High levels of interrater agreement on both rating scales was, although the hypothesized factor structure did not emerge. Analysis of ratings of the videotapes using Cronbach's components of accuracy (Cronbach, 1955) indicated that BARS ratings generally exhibited less error than did the Behavioral Frequency ratings. The results are discussed in terms of both field and research implications.
Collaborative Decision Making in Dynamic Systems
Authors: Coury Bruce G. , Terranova Michele
Published: January 2012

Operators of power plants, management decision makers and military commanders are often faced with collaborating and coordinating decision making efforts with other people while simultaneously interacting with computer-based control or information systems. We view such activities as collaborative decision making and consider the communication and coordination involved in those tasks to be the essence of team performance. The purpose of this paper is to outline the important factors in collaborative decision making and identify the important issues relevant to communication and coordination in complex, dynamic systems. A model of collaborative decision making in dynamic systems will be described that relies on three important elements: decision making; communication; and the user interface.
Workload Transition: Job Design and Training Issues
Authors: Shields Joyce L. , Maddox Michael E.
Published: January 2012

The focus of this paper is on the specific and general job design and training issues that impact crew and individual performance in workload transition. The first part of the paper will address three general areas of job design: 1) the physical environment in which work is performed, 2) the workplace or workstation at which users perform tasks and 3) the displays and controls required for task performance. The second part of the paper will address findings related to how training can increase the probability of adequate performance.
Individual Differences in Airline Captains' Personalities, Communication Strategies, and Crew Performance
Authors: Orasanu Judith
Published: January 2012

Aircrew effectiveness in coping with emergencies has been linked to captain's personality profile. The present study analyzed cockpit communication during simulated flight to examine the relation between captains' discourse strategies, personality profiles, and crew performanc. The goal was to determine what communication behaviors distinguish betwee more and less effective captains. Crews led by captains with different personality profiles were compared in a full-mission simulation study. Positive Instrumental/Expressive captains and Instrumental-Negative capta used very similar communication strategies and their crews made few error. Their talk was distinguished by high levels of planning and strategizing, gathering information, predicting/alerting, and explaining, especially du the emergency flight phase. Negative-Expressive captains talked less overall, and engaged in little problem solving talk, even during emergenc Their crews made many erors. Findings support the theory that high crew performance results wehn captains use language to build shared mental mod for problem situations.
Comparing the Cattell 16PF Profiles of Male and Female Commercial Airline Pilots
Authors: Galloway Marla L. , Ogle Charles D. , Malmstrom Frederick V.
Published: January 2012

In order to compare the personality profiles of both male and female commercial airline pilots, Cattell's 16 Personality Factor (16PF) Questionnaire, Form A was mailed to 250 randomly selected male and female commercial pilots (female n=125; male n=125). Returned, completed questionnaires were 92 female and 57 male. Contrary to expectations that female pilots would exhibit profiles similar to those of women in traditional female occupations, the female commercial pilot profile showed greater similarity similarity to the male commercial pilot profile. Of the 16 personality factors, seven factors (intelligence, elation, suspiciousness, practicality, shrewdness, self-sufficiency, and control) showed no significant differences. Six factors showed minor to marginal differences (warmth, stability, conformity, boldness, security, and conservativeness). Three factors showed major significant differences (dominance, sensitivity, and anxiety). On those factors which showed differences, female pilots scored comparatively lower than male pilots, but still well above those of U.S. males and females at large. Findings support the existence of a “Pilot's Personality” independent of gender.
Variations in Troubleshooting Skill as a Function of Psychological Arousal
Authors: Morrison David L. , Meng Yap Lai , Farley Caroline
Published: January 2012

The acute effects of exposure to extreme stress are often hypothesised to be at least partly responsible for errors of judgement and action in humans. Most research in this area has concentrated on simple laboratory tasks. This paper reports the results of research that examined the effects on troubleshooting performance of three variables known to influence psychological arousal: noise, memory load and time of day.

All three independent variables were found to affect troubleshooting performance. Noise facilitated performance of subjects with low initial ability and all subjects at night in a low memory load condition. However, the performance of high ability subjects was impaired in the morning when exposed to bursts of noise. The theoretical and practical implications of these results for future research and systems design are discussed.
Recognition of Traffic Sign Symbols in the Field during Daytime and Nighttime
Authors: Zwahlen Helmut T. , Hu Xiaohong , Sunkara Murali , Duffus LuAnn M.
Published: January 2012

Early recognition of Traffic Control Devices, especially the recognition of symbols on warning signs is important since this provides drivers with a maximum amount of time to make decisions with regard to vehicle direction, speed and lateral position. A number of studies providing recognition distances for selected traffic warning sign symbols have been published in recent years. All these laboratory studies provide relatively short recognition distances. Independent daytime and nighttime field experiments for traffic warning sign symbol recognition were conducted using a set of 12 retroreflective warning signs. The results indicate that the average symbol recognition distances obtained in this study for daytime conditions are about 2 times longer than the corresponding distances obtained in the laboratory and are about 1.2 times longer than the corresponding nighttime distances obtained in this study. The 50, 85, 90, 95 and 99 percentile symbol recognition distances have been established for both daytime and nighttime field conditions. Based upon the results of this study it may be tentatively concluded that in spite of the slight distance reducing influence of the transmissivity of the atmosphere in the field studies, the laboratory studies produce much shorter symbol recognition distances and that these distances obtained in the laboratories have a highly questionable validity when used in accident reconstruction studies or as absolute design values in the real world.
Identification of Human Errors of Commission Using Sneak Analysis
Authors: Hahn Heidi Ann , deVries John A.
Published: January 2012

Sneak Analysis was adapted for use in identifying human errors of commission. Flow diagrams were developed to guide the analyst through a series of questions aimed at locating sneak paths, sneak indications, sneak labels, and sneak timing. An illustration of the application of this methodology in a nuclear environment is given and a computerized tool to support Sneak Analysis is described.
The Perceptual Determinants of Workplace Hazards
Authors: Shinar David , Gurion Ben , Flascher Oded M.
Published: January 2012

While there is a general agreement on what constitutes a safety hazard, the guidelines for assessing its risk or level of hazardousness are less clear. Ranking hazards according to their level of hazardousness is critical, in setting safety improvement priorities, and addressing the more hazardous situations in the work environment. Interviews with safety experts and a literature review yielded 25 determinants of hazardousness. After narrowing the list to 11 variables, we empirically assessed the relationship between the overall assessment of a safety hazard's level of hazardousness, and each of these variables. The results indicated that two variables were sufficient to account for 95% of the variance between hazards: likelihood of an injury, and likelihood of slowing down work. This finding was cross-validated by using different groups for the assessment of the overall level of hazardousness and the assessment of the relevance of the different variables. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed.
Human Factors in the Travtek Demonstration IVHS Project: Getting Information to the Driver
Authors: Fleischman Rebecca N. , Carpenter Janeth T. , Dingus Thomas A. , Szczublewski Francis E. , Krage Mark K. , Means Linda G.
Published: January 2012

Advanced Driver Information Systems (ADIS) have the potential to assist drivers in choosing and reaching destinations by supplying information that is more complete and timely than is currently available. These rapidly developing information and communication technologies are also expected to bring about improvements in traffic network efficiency and safety. However, presenting new information to drivers raises a number of human factors concerns such as the potential for information overload and distraction from primary driving tasks. The challenge to driver/system interface designers is to maximize usability and learnability, minimize attentional demand and information density, and provide choices for individuals. The TravTek project is presented as an example of how human factors concerns can be addressed within the constraints of a particular ADIS system and of how human factors engineering and research can be integrated into the system design process.
Laboratory and Closed-Course Measures of Driver Decision Making
Authors: Ranney Thomas A.
Published: January 2012

A technique for measuring two-choice reaction time using turn-signal activation in a stationary or moving vehicle was implemented on a closed driving course. Fifteen subjects, aged 26 to 45 completed five tasks, one in the laboratory, two in a stationary vehicle and two in a moving vehicle. The lab task included simple, choice and movement reaction times. Stationary-vehicle tasks included simple and choice reaction time and a memory/attention task implemented on a changeable message sign. Moving-vehicle tasks included timed lane selection in response to traffic signal changes and the memory/attention task. Data obtained in the vehicles were adjusted for differences in turn-signal activation characteristics through subtraction of individual vehicle delay constants. Lab and stationary-vehicle measures of choice reaction time correlated significantly with response times in driving-related tasks. Intercorrelations among driving-related tasks were strongest between moving-vehicle tasks, suggesting that controlling a moving vehicle exerted a stronger influence on individual differences in performance than did the cognitive requirements of the decision tasks. Tasks where stimuli appeared outside the vehicle at a distance were associated with higher variability than tasks using stimuli near to the subject. Correlations between replications of the same task were supportive of good reliability. The overall pattern of results suggests that drivers were more attentive during the first session, and less so during the second and third sessions. Performance in the first session may reflect drivers' capabilities, while subsequent performance may be more representative of the reduced attention given to everyday driving. Implications for the development and administration of the driving test battery are discussed.
Anesthesia Simulation - Demonstration
Authors: Bogner Sue , Smith N. Ty , Gaba David , Williams John
Published: January 2012

Human error can be reduced and performance enhanced in the practice of anesthesiology by providing a wide range of controlled experience. These demonstrations illustrate the viability of simulation in addressing the issue of human error in the practice of anesthesiology.
Development of an Aegis Combatant Integrated Survivability Management System (ISMS) Modeling Tool
Authors: Perse Randy M. , Callahan Kathryn P. , Malone Thomas B.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents the results of a study to develop an automated analytical tool for establishing the role of man vs. machine in the operation and design of the AEGIS combatant Integrated Survivability Management System (ISMS). ISMS enables a ship to control damage and continue to defend itself when damaged–“fight while hurt”– by integrating damage control (DC) and combat systems (CS) functions.

The initial activity in the human engineering process was to develop a model of information-processing and decision-making tasks for ISMS damage control activities aboard an Aegis-class ship. A task flow model developed in a previous effort was expanded and refined to include detailed damage control activities in Damage Control Central (DCC), and activities for repair of Vital Systems and Fume and Airtight Integrity. Task flow sequences were created based on Navy doctrine and subject matter expert (SME) interviews, validated at NAVSEA, and modeled in a fire and flooding demonstration scenario.

The ISMS task sequence model was exercised using an analytical tool, designated Simulation Workload and Assessment Modeling (SIMWAM). Use of this tool identifies operator workloads and interruptions, information-processing and decision-making task bottlenecks, over- and under-utilized operators, and task delays in multiple complex damage control scenarios.

By taking advantage of SIMWAM's capabilities to model complex multiple-operator man-machine systems, this ISMS damage control model will be particularly useful for front-end analysis of ISMS design options, and for modeling changes to damage control doctrine, procedures, personnel allocations, and organization under a variety of damage control scenarios.
Crewcut: A New Tool for Predicting Human Performance in Conceptual Systems
Authors: Plocher Tom , Lockett John F. , Kovach Peter , Powers Jeffrey
Published: January 2012

CREWCUT was developed in response to the need for a tool that can predict the effects of automation on operator workload and system performance. Previous analytical tools have considered either operator workload alone or system performance alone, neglecting the important interaction. In contrast, CREWCUT integrates workload estimation algorithms into a dynamic human performance simulation framework, such that the performance consequences of excessive workload can be observed and quantified. CREWCUT also provides a mechanism for simulating operator coping or workload management strategies and their effects on system performance.

Workload algorithms in CREWCUT are based on a multiple resource theoretical model that includes three workload components: 1) single task demands, 2) cognitive interference, and 3) structural interference. Workload is computed as the demand placed on each mental resource at any given moment in the simulation, given the degree of conflict or interference in resource demands at that moment. When demands exceed threshold, workload management strategies are called into play by CREWCUT and attempt to reduce workload. Various performance penalties are assessed, depending upon the particular strategy selected and its degree of success in normalizing workload.

The effects of automation on technology insertion can be simulated in CREWCUT in terms of its effects on operator tasks (sequencing, allocation, time, and error parameters), workload demands, and crewstation displays and controls. The workload and system performance effects of display and control media, as well as the physical layout of the crewstation are considered. Both graphic and tabular simulation outputs are provided, supporting a variety of system performance measures.
The Use of Fast-Time Simulation in Predicting Multioperator-System Efficiency
Authors: Stretton Milt , Swiontek Dick , Morris John , Conway Jane , Wachter John
Published: January 2012

Three multioperator models were developed using SLAM II to evaluate antisubmarine warfare (ASW) combat system architectures, ASW team member-system interactions, and sensor systems concept of operations, for the purpose of estimating multioperator efficiency. Models varied in sensor sensitivity, system automaticity, and ASW team coordination configurations. The models included a notional ASW combat system configuration (Baseline), the current configuration plus improved sensors (Extended Baseline), and an alternate ASW team coordination structure plus improved sensors (Unconstrained). Effectiveness measures enabled the identification of operator loading levels and the estimation of the extent to which system and alternative ASW team coordination affected the overall handling of contact data across the three models. Results of these analyses have numerous implications on the areas of system design engineering and subsequent sensor operator training, operational procedure development, and engineering change proposal evaluation.
The Dynamics of Trust in a Supervisory Control Simulation
Authors: Lee John D.
Published: January 2012

As automated controllers supplant human intervention in controlling complex systems, the operator's role changes from that of an active controller to that of a supervisory controller, interacting with the system by engaging different degrees of automatic and manual control. Because manual and automatic control have different capabilities and limitations, improperly allocating function between automatic and manual control can have negative consequences for system performance. The operator's decision to perform a task manually or automatically depends, in part, upon the trust the operators invest in the automatic controllers (Muir, 1989). Consequently, the factors influencing trust, as well as the dynamics of trust need to be identified.

This research examines changes in operators' trust during an interaction with a simulated semi-automatic pasteurization plant. The results of this research show how trust develops as the operators interact with the system, as well as how trust changes in response to faults in the system. An ARMAV time series model of trust is proposed as a first step in developing a quantitative understanding of the dynamics of trust. The ARMAV analysis supports a quantitative understanding of the “inertia” observed in the both the gradual development of trust and the decline and recovery with the occurrence of faults. The findings in this paper form a foundation on which future research might build, eventually leading to a more complete understanding of the factors mediating an operator's allocation of function in a supervisory control situation.
Human Factors Taxonomy
Authors: Gawron Valerie J. , Anno George , Fleishman Edwin A. , Jones Edwin D. , Lovesey E.J. , McGlynn Lana E. , McMillan Grant , McNally Richard E. , Meister David , Brien Lawrence O' , Promisel David M. , Ramierez Tammy , Smith Bruce L.
Published: January 2012

This paper: 1) describes the need for a human-factors taxonomy; 2) identifies existing taxonomies from the scientific, training, test and evaluation, and mission modeling disciplines; 3) lists the rules used in combining these taxonomies into a single, coherent taxonomy; 4) presents the taxonomy at its top levels; and 5) provides a source for obtaining a copy of the AIAA Human-Factors Taxonomy standard.
A Conceptual Framework for Classifying and Measuring Cognitive Skills
Authors: Modrick John A.
Published: January 2012

A framework is presented for classifying the cognitive skills exercised in deploying and managing resources in competitive situations. Behavioral task descriptions are partitioned into four cognitive levels: functions, procedures, skills, and abilities. A cognitive procedure is defined as a goal-directed, semi-structured, flexible sequence of actions in an emergent situation, adapted to deviations from nominal values for local conditions, terrain, environment, and adversarial actions. A procedure is represented as Cognitive Procedure Script (CPS), a sequence of actions required to achieve an operational goal. Actions in a CPS must be reduced to detectable response/event sequences for carrying out the actions: Implementing Steps (IS). To infer a candidate CPS being executed a computer maintains a temporal record of IS and searches for patterns that correspond to an action in a CPS. The CPS is represented also as a sequence of states and subgoals instrumental to a final goal. Each state is defined by situational conditions, subgoal, state maintenance behavior, action to transition to the next state, and the IS for executing the action. Implications for task analysis and measures of task complexity are discussed. A long range strategy is presented for developing and validating a Cognitive Skills Taxonomy to support decisions about manpower, personnel, and training during system design.
Measures of Physician Mental Workload
Authors: Bertram Dennis A.
Published: January 2012

Concepts and measurement techniques from human factors research were used to develop two measures of the mental workload experienced by physicians in clinic settings. The instruments had good reliability (Cronbach's alpha) and physician mental workload was correlated with hypothesized work demands and performance measures. These initial results support the feasibility of measuring physician mental workload in typical patient care encounters.
The Analysis of Expert Performance in the Redesign of the En Route Air Traffic Control Curriculum
Authors: Redding Richard E. , Cannon John R. , Lierman Bruce C. , Ryder Joan M. , Purcell Janine A. , Seamster Thomas L.
Published: January 2012

This paper describes a cognitive task analysis performed within an integrated framework to analyze knowledge structures, mental models, skills, and strategies of the en route controllers to provide an understanding of the key cognitive components of the controller's job. Seven different procedures were used to collect cognitive data, and this presentation concentrates on the results of three of those procedures as they contributed to an understanding of controller expertise. The procedures under discussion include performance modeling, structured problem solving, and paper problem solving. The performance modeling resulted in the identification of twelve primary tasks and a mental model made up of eight panels that underlie expert controller's organization of domain knowledge. The structured problem solving involved protocol analysis that resulted in the identification of three categories of controller strategies, and the paper problem solving resulted in a hierarchy of goals and a set of methods used by experts to achieve those goals. These results were integrated into a model of the expert controller that will be used to specify the instructional content and sequencing for the new curriculum.
Visual Display Highlighting and Information Extraction
Authors: Brown Tony J.
Published: January 2012

This research examined the influence of computer-generated highlighting on visual search performance and information extraction. The tasks used to examine information extraction were a detection task (presence or absence of visual features), a localization task (knowledge of target's location), and an identification task (word identification). For each of the three tasks there were twelve highlighting techniques that were presented among displays of varying sizes (i.e., 3, 12, 24 items). The study tested twenty-five subjects, with a total of 30,480 screens being viewed. The results suggested that all the highlighting techniques tested were detected and localized more quickly and accurately than the non-highlighted condition. The identification task required the greatest amount of attention (i.e., processing time), and suggested a final stage of visual search where the content of a visually highlighted message is recognized. During all three tasks the information highlighted by color or by an enclosed frame was not influenced by changes in set size, and demonstrated the benefits associated with these visual display highlighting techniques. There was also partial support for the idea that some techniques may draw attention away from the item being highlighted (Fisher and Tan, 1989), while others may allow the highlighted item to “pop out” at the viewer (Treisman and Gormican, 1988). These findings also have implications for the presentation of computer-generated highlighting on visual display terminals.
Experimental Evaluation of an Adaptable Acoustic Color Coding Interface System
Authors: Glenn Floyd A. , Zaklad Allen L. , Ryder Joan M. , Goodman Lee S.
Published: January 2012

Although a large amount of research has been performed to develop principles and guidelines for the effective use of color in display coding, very little of it has dealt with the color coding of continuously varying data - also known as pseudo-coloring. This research is investigating the application of pseudo-coloring to the display of data from sonar systems, in order to enhance target detection and classification performance. A scheme has been developed for adaptable pseudo-coloring of sonogram displays, called an Adaptable Acoustic Color Coding Interface System (AACCIS), in which the sensor operator adjusts one or two dimensions of control of the color coding scheme in order to optimize performance in operational detection and classification tasks. Two experiments were performed to: (1) select specific adjustment parameters for user control, and (2) compare task performance between a few alternative adjustable and non-adjustable color codes.
Human Factors Issues in the Use of Night Vision Devices
Authors: Kaiser Mary K. , Foyle David C.
Published: January 2012

Electro-optical imaging systems have been integrated into rotorcraft operations, allowing pilots to fly at very low altitudes and avoid obstacles in reduced visibility. The hardware characteristics of these systems result in visual displays which differ significantly from unaided, daylight vision. The impact of these differences on perceptual performance (and, ultimately, on pilotage) is poorly understood. In this paper, we identify critical human factors concerns suggested by field data and review empirical studies of performance on flight-relevant perceptual tasks, notably depth and distance perception. Hardware modifications to improve man-system performance are suggested.
Effects of Concurrent Information Load on Serial and Simultaneous Visual Display Formats
Authors: Uhlarik John , Joseph Kurt M. , Renfro Michael D.
Published: January 2012

RAP-COM (rapid-communication) displays have been shown to have useful potential human-computer interactions involving high information transfer rates (cf., Matin and Boff, 1988). Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the relative effectiveness of serial and simultaneous presentation of information via computer automated visual displays. Serial display formats involved rapid sequential presentation of discrete frames of information in a single spatial location. Whereas simultaneous formats consisted of presenting equivalent information in the same temporal frame, but in different spatial locations. The effectiveness of these two display formats were compared for different conditions which systematically varied concurrent information load. Surprisingly, the results indicated that in all of the variations of the tasks, simultaneous display formats were associated with faster and more accurate performance. These findings suggest that is difficult to make apriori predictions regarding performance advantages associated with automated displays.
S-R Compatibility Effects with Orthogonal Stimulus and Response Dimensions
Authors: Andre Anthony D. , Haskell Ian , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: January 2012

An experiment was conducted to assess the relative influence of several factors on performance with orthogonal stimulus-response arrays. Subjects responded to the onset of one of three aligned light circles with a press of one of three aligned response keys. The response array was aligned parallel, angled, or orthogonal to the stimulus array. The results indicated that performance with orthogonal arrays is worse than with parallel or angled S-R arrays. For the orthogonal arrangements, the results also indicate that each hand prefers a mapping directly opposite to the other hand, and that this mapping reverses when the orientation of the stimulus and response arrays are transposed. In addition, the results also revealed that the relative costs of orthogonal S-R arrangements are somewhat attenuated when the assigned mapping associates (i.e, colocates) a given display with its closest control.
Bias in Police Lineups and its Reduction by an Alternative Construction Procedure
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Van't Slot Laura J. , Kalsher Michael J.
Published: January 2012

The present research examined whether eyewitness identification lineups produced by law enforcement personnel are biased or suggestive. Experienced police officers were asked to construct two six-face photographic lineups, first using their usual (traditional) method, and second using an alternative method. The primary basis of the traditional method is that foils are selected based on their similarity to the target. The alternative method includes foils that are not only similar to the target but also similar to other foil faces in the lineup. Both types of lineups were shown to subjects who had not seen the faces before (mock witnesses) and were asked to guess the respective targets. The results showed that mock witnesses selected the targets significantly more often than expected by chance (1/6 probability) when embedded in the traditional lineups, thus demonstrating that these lineups were suggestive. Mock witnesses did not select alternative-method targets more often than expected by chance. These results indicate that foil selection procedures incorporating foil-to-foil similarity produce fairer lineups than those exclusively based on target similarity. Implications for forensic lineup construction procedures and for future research are discussed.