Comparing interventions to reduce boredom in a low mental workload environment

Abstract

ABSTRACT Boredom is a common workplace problem. Previous research has suggested that repetitive and monotonous work tasks may lead to boredom. However, these tasks have been reduced due to increased workplace automation. Thus, the current cause of boredom may be due to low mental workload. This research developed a general boredom model and compared the effects of feedback type (performance and ranking) and intervention method (game and quiz) on boredom and task performance. Results revealed that the secondary task interventions can reduce boredom and feedback could shorten the response time. Gender also had a significant influence on response time. Notably, results revealed a 4% probability of task failure during the experiment, indicating other interventions are also required. This research indicates that interventions to reduce boredom caused by low mental workload should be designed differently from tasks that have been designed to combat the boredom caused by repetitive and monotonous work.