Effective Mental Workload Measurement by Thermography : Quantifying Cognitive Workload and Defining Training Time Requirements during Performing Simple and Complex Tasks

ISBN-13: 9783639148169 / Angielski / Miękka / 2009 / 300 str.

Jihun Kang

Opis

Effective mental workload measurement is critical because mental workload significantly affects human performance. A non-invasive and objective workload measurement tool is needed to overcome limitations of current mental workload measures. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of using thermal imaging of the face to quantify learning and mental workload levels during a novel alpha-numeric task and during simulated driving tasks. To this extent, three studies were completed. The first study quantified the relationship between facial thermal images and mental workload while performing the alpha-numeric task. The second study used thermography to identify optimal workload levels for this same task after learning had occurred. The third study quantified learning and workload of novice and experienced drivers performing scripted driving events in a driving simulator. This study verified that thermography is a reliable and valid way to measure workload for simple tasks. It is a non-invasive and objective method. Thermography showed the capability to identify a sufficient training time for simple or complex cognitive tasks. Effective mental workload measurement is critical because mental workload significantly affects human performance. A non-invasive and objective workload measurement tool is needed to overcome limitations of current mental workload measures. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of using thermal imaging of the face to quantify learning and mental workload levels during a novel alpha-numeric task and during simulated driving tasks. To this extent, three studies were completed. The first study quantified the relationship between facial thermal images and mental workload while performing the alpha-numeric task. The second study used thermography to identify optimal workload levels for this same task after learning had occurred. The third study quantified learning and workload of novice and experienced drivers performing scripted driving events in a driving simulator. This study verified that thermography is a reliable and valid way to measure workload for simple tasks. It is a non-invasive and objective method. Thermography showed the capability to identify a sufficient training time for simple or complex cognitive tasks.

O autorze

Jihun Kang received his PhD in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Mississippi State University in 2008. Dr. Kang research efforts are focused in the areas of human factors, ergonomics, and safety. One of his research interests is developing effective workload measures to provide safer and more productive working environments.