SWAT: Do We Need Conjoint Measurement?

Abstract

The present study sought to determine the utility of the unweighted sum as an alternative to conjoint measurement in forming a workload composite measure with the Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT). The data from a simulator study designed to identify pilot workload associated with alternative cockpit configurations in a night air interdiction mission were reanalyzed using a percentage measure (SUMPCT) based on the unweighted sum of the three SWAT rating scales. Results indicated that the CONJOINT and SUMPCT workload composites were highly correlated and were equally sensitive to detecting differences in the independent variables. The reasons for the equal sensitivity of the two composite measures are discussed. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that one can form a composite measure of workload using the SWAT rating scales without the necessity of having to conduct the time-consuming card sort.