Eye Movements in Human Performance Modeling of Space Shuttle Operations

Abstract

The goal of our research is to easily develop models that predict astronaut performance in space shuttle operations, but it is difficult to make extrapolations from astronaut training data. A solution is to decompose a complex task into a set of basic operators which are sequenced to create longer chains of behavior. In this modeling project, gaze durations and sequences are predicted and compared to the performance of novice (trained pilots) and expert (astronaut) space shuttle operators. The model makes generally good zero-parameter predictions of gaze durations, but there are notable discrepancies. The gaze sequence of the model is more similar to expert performance than novice performance, but there are differences from both. It appears that with more training, experts develop different gaze sequence strategies than novices due to familiarity with fault messages and procedures. Future modeling efforts should have their gaze sequence strategies based on expert performance.