Using Signal-to-Noise Ratio to Explore The Cognitive Cost of The Detection Response Task

Abstract

The Detection Response Task (DRT) is a standardized measure of cognitive load requiring manual responses to intermittent stimuli. Given its simplicity, it is hypothesized that its completion will not interfere with the primary task. However, recent studies challenge this assumption showing a definite cost of DRT performance. In this study we adopt signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a measure commonly used in communication engineering: 1) to explore the cognitive cost of DRT 2) to compare the sensitivity of DRT performance and pupil size in measuring cognitive load. SNR was calculated using the data from a study wherein DRT performance and pupil size were recorded while participants completed increasingly difficult mental tasks. We conclude that DRT completion interfered with the overall cognitive task demand and showed pupil size’s greater sensitivity to changes in cognitive load. Though exploratory, our study advances using SNR as a powerful tool for data integration in HF/E research.