I See What You're Thinking: Using Cognitive Models to Represent Working Memory Usage for Traffic Flow Management Decision Support Prototypes

Abstract

A unique method was developed for explicitly and quantitatively representing working memory in an NGOMSL model (Estes, 2001). Applying this method, MITRE CAASD evaluated alternative designs of a research prototype for TFM ((Air) Traffic Flow Management). The NGOMSL modeling made it possible to quantify the physical workload and working memory benefits of an interface which integrates multiple steps into one window and one thread of interaction, as compared to the prototype's original design. It was found that the integrated design places little burden on working memory, more readily provides information about the task, and allows for less interaction with the interface. This design is planned for use in future TFM research, and some aspects of the design are already planned to be incorporated into operational TFM software.

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