Catastrophe Models for Cognitive Workload and Fatigue

Authors

Stephen J. Guastello, Marquette UniversityFollow
Henry Boeh, Marquette University
Curt Shumaker, Marquette University
Michael Schimmels, Marquette University

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

7 p.

Publication Date

4-8-2011

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Source Publication

Theoretical Issues in Ergonomic Science

Source ISSN

1463-922X

Original Item ID

doi: 10.1080/1463922X.2011.552131

Abstract

We reconceptualised several problems concerning the measurement of cognitive workload – fixed versus variable limits on channel capacity, work volume versus time pressure, adaptive strategies, resources demanded by tasks when performed simultaneously, and unclear distinctions between workload and fatigue effects – as two cusp catastrophe models: buckling stress resulting from acute workload, and fatigue resulting from extended engagement. Experimental participants completed a task that was intensive on non-verbal episodic memory and had an automatically speeded component. For buckling stress, the epoch of maximum (speeded) performance was the asymmetry parameter; however, anxiety did not contribute to bifurcation as expected. For fatigue, the bifurcation factor was the total work accomplished, and arithmetic, a compensatory ability, was the asymmetry parameter; R2 for the cusp models outperformed the linear comparison models in both cases. A research programme is outlined that revolves around the two models with different types of task and resource configurations.

Comments

Accepted version. Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science, Vol. 13, No. 5 (2012): 586-602, DOI. © 2012 Taylor & Francis. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Guastello, Stephen J.; Boeh, Henry; Shumaker, Curt; and Schimmels, Michael, "Catastrophe Models for Cognitive Workload and Fatigue" (2011). Psychology Faculty Research and Publications. 17.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/psych_fac/17