Cue Utilization as an Objective Metric in Naturalistic Decision-Making

Abstract

The utilization of cues is a process that underpins a wide range of naturalistic models of decision-making, often differentiating the performance of experts and non-experts. However, the domain-specific and idiosyncratic nature of cue utilization means that the existence of cues in memory, together with their application, has been difficult to assess. This paper explains a valid and reliable approach to the assessment of cue utilization that accounts for idiosyncrasy and confirms the role of cues in facilitating performance amongst skilled practitioners. It also enables comparative analyses between operators, thereby facilitating a more robust process for the selection of subject-matter experts, assessments of gaps in performance that might be explained by differences in cue utilization, especially following the introduction of new technologies, the evaluation of training outcomes against baseline performance, and the identification of changes in cue utilization that might be associated with absences or other workplace demands.