Foreseeing interruptions in dynamic environments may undermine the adequacy between perceived and observable task performance

Abstract

ABSTRACT The negative impact of interruptions on performance can sometimes be mitigated by notifying individuals shortly before their task is suspended. However, little is known about the accuracy with which individuals can assess the consequences of both unexpected and anticipated interruptions. This study investigated how suspending a dynamic task with or without prior warning influenced individuals’ self-reported performance and workload, and whether their perception aligned with their observable performance. Participants completed a simulation of above-water warfare in which they classified the threat level of surrounding aircraft and neutralized hostile aircraft. Subjective (performance, workload) and behavioural (performance) measures were compared across three types of scenarios: uninterrupted, unexpectedly interrupted, or interrupted following an auditory warning. Nearly all behavioural performance indicators were impaired by interruptions. Although the warning only partially mitigated this negative impact, participants perceived it as an effective aid overall. Therefore, individuals may sometimes misperceive that forewarned interruptions help overcoming performance costs.