In Search of Workload Context Effects Using a Compensatory Tracking Task

Abstract

This study examined whether or not prior levels of task difficulty (context effects) impacted subsequent performance and workload ratings. Previous research by Hancock, et al. (1995) found context effects for workload ratings. Similar studies, (Fischer, 1995; Moroney et al., 1993; Rench 2002) using flight simulation tasks had not demonstrated context effects. In the current study, twelve participants completed three sessions of three compensatory tracking trials each using the Multi-Attribute Task Battery (MATB) tracking task. RMSE scores and TLX ratings were analyzed for each trial. A repeated measures design presented the first trial (Baseline) and the third trial (Critical) at a medium difficulty level. The (context inducing) middle trial had three levels of difficulty (low, medium and high). Performance and workload ratings for the baseline and critical trial were compared and showed no difficulty by trial interaction. Therefore, contrary to Hancock, et al., no context effect was obtained.