Predicted versus experienced workload and performance on a supervisory control task

Abstract

The multitask simulation of a supervisory control system was examined in order to evaluate the ability of operators to predict the workload and performance impact of unfamiliar task features, using their basic knowledge and specific information provided before each scenario. Task difficulty and experienced workload were varied by manipulating the number of elements per task, the number of tasks, task schedule, and availability of task elements for performance. The results have indicated that an operator might correctly predict the workload of a realistically complex task if (1) he is familiar with the basic system, and (2) the design, functional requirements, and operational procedures of the proposed modifications are described clearly. He is less able to predict unfamiliar rate or schedule complexity manipulations for which timing is an important element.