Objective: An experiment tested a technique for encouraging appropriate human-automation interaction. Background: Operators often fail to make optimal use of automated aids, particularly when the aids are highly reliable. One way to discourage automation disuse might be to encourage automation dependence through time pressure. Methods: Fifty-two participants performed a simulated security screening task, searching for knives hidden in cluttered baggage x-rays. Participants were assisted by a diagnostic aid that was either 95%, 80% or 65% reliable, and were given instructions that asked them to make speeded or unspeeded decisions. Results: Participants showed higher levels of automation dependence under time pressure. This benefited overall performance in the 95% reliable condition. Conclusion: Time pressure encouraged heuristic dependence on automation aids, and benefited overall human-automation performance when the automation was highly reliable. Application: Data suggest a method for mitigating automation disuse.
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