Evaluation of methods for determining optimal mental workload levels

摘要

The goal of this study was to evaluate three methods for quantifying optimal workload levels (fixed load, self-selected, and psychophysics) during an alpha-numeric cognitive task. For each method, participants completed three task blocks (approximately 20 minutes) to determine their "optimal" workload level, and an additional four blocks under their selected optimal. Psychophysics was identified as the most effective strategy for determining optimal workload levels. Thermal readings stabilized as response pacing was adjusted towards participants' "optimal" levels. Thermal readings were found to correlate strongly with performance and subjective workload measures. Study findings provide support for using psychophysics to determine optimal workload levels.