The Relevance of Vigilance Research to Aerospace Monitoring Tasks 1

Abstract

The basic task dynamics of classical vigilance research are outlined and compared with those of representative contemporary monitoring tasks. It is argued that, while monitoring functions are increasing in modern technology, those particular functions on which the classical vigilance research paradigm is based are declining. The difficulty of generalizing from simple laboratory vigilance tasks to the generally more complex applied monitoring functions is discussed. It is suggested that the results of classical vigilance research may not be particularly germane to contemporary monitoring problems. Recommendations for future research are given.