Abstract
The dissertation research summarized here, utilized the Grounded Theory Method to develop a conceptual model of pilot situation awareness from 223 Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) narratives. The application of Latent Semantic Analysis aided the theoretical sampling of ASRS reports. A multistage model was developed involving attention, perception, interpretation, decision making, and action in support of goal-driven behavior. Narrative report coding identified several categories of situation awareness elements that pilots direct their attention to in building and maintaining situation awareness. Internal to the aircraft, flight crews directed their attention to the aircraft’s flight state and automation state. They also directed their attention to the condition of the aircraft, the functioning of the crew, and the status of the cabin. External to the aircraft, flight crews directed their attention to airport conditions, air traffic control, terrain, traffic, and weather. Pilots were also aware of the passage of time. Twelve characteristics of situation awareness were identified from narrative report coding which were subsequently compared with existing theoretical perspectives of situation awareness.
Highlights
The primary aim of the dissertation research summarized here was to provide a greater understanding of the process of situation awareness from a qualitative perspective (Irwin, 2017)
The grounded theory method was selected for this research project based on its consistency with the pragmatic worldview undergirding this research, its compatibility with naturalistic human factors theories, and the aim of this project to develop a model of pilot situation awareness grounded in pilot experience
Qualitative research methods grounded in pragmatism, such as grounded theory, provide a method of studying situation awareness in situ, while avoiding reductionism, where isolated concepts and processes are examined in isolation from their situation and context (Shalin, 1986; Dillon et al, 2000)
Summary
The primary aim of the dissertation research summarized here was to provide a greater understanding of the process of situation awareness from a qualitative perspective (Irwin, 2017). This research utilized the grounded theory method to explore how airline pilots understand their situation and structure their awareness. A greater understanding of how pilots construct their awareness of a situation has implications for research by improving our understanding of pilot cognitive processes. A comprehensive model of situation awareness, grounded in the experiences of airline pilots, improves pilot education and professional practice, by providing a tool for reflection, education, and event analysis. This article presents a conceptual model of pilot situation awareness intended to provide a simple and intuitive framework for reflection and analysis, useful to practitioners. This research sought to understand the situation models pilots use to maintain situation awareness, how these situation models are developed and organized, and how they impact broader crew processes
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