Input modality pairings influence dual task costs, but not cognitive load

Abstract

ABSTRACT According to the distinct cognitive resources view, individuals can complete two tasks in different modalities concurrently, as long as either resource is not overloaded. However, little is known about how task modality impacts individuals’ perceptions of the mental resources necessary for the task (i.e., cognitive load). We compared visual memory task performance and perceived cognitive load when participants completed a visual (same modality) secondary task, auditory (different modality) secondary task, and control condition (no secondary task). Delayed recall performance, but not cognitive load, was worse in the same-modality condition than in the different-modality condition. Performance was worst in the condition where participants reported experiencing the highest level of cognitive load, even if that condition did not include a secondary task. Results partially support the distinct cognitive resources view, indicating a modality effect for delayed recall performance, but not for perceived cognitive load. Implications for multitasking performance and decision-making are discussed.