Theory-based Models of Attention in Visual Workspaces

ABSTRACT

To minimize the risk of operator distraction or overload, system designers must tailor the arrangement of display channels in a visual workspace to the operator’s attentional abilities. Toward this end, computational models that embody the theoretical principles of attention control can inform the designer’s choices and narrow the space of potential display layouts for consideration. Wickens’ SEEV model incorporates four mechanisms of attentional guidance—stimulus salience, effort, expectancy, and information value—along with a probabilistic choice mechanism to predict the steady-state distribution of attention over multiple information channels. An extension of the model also predicts the speed and probability with which participants notice critical signals in a dynamic workspace. Empirical tests in single- and multi-task supervisory monitoring environments confirm that the models predict performance well, capturing the influence of various top-down and bottom-up attentional control mechanisms. Results suggest that the models can serve as theory-motivated tools to guide and assess the design of multi-channel visual workspaces.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kelly S. Steelman

Kelly S. Steelman is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Michigan Technological University. She holds a B.S. and Masters in Aerospace Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology and a M.S. in Human Factors and Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her research interests include visual attention, display design, and multimedia learning.

Jason S. McCarley

Jason S. McCarley holds a B.A. in Psychology from Purdue University, and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from the University of Louisville. He is currently a Professor at the Flinders University of South Australia.

Christopher D. Wickens

Christopher D. Wickens is currently a Professor of Psychology at Colorado State University. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan in Psychology in 1974. He was a Professor of Psychology, and then Psychology and Aviation, at the University of Illinois from 1974 to 2006. His research interests include attention, applied cognition, and aviation & transportation safety.