Prospective memory while driving: comparison of time- and event-based intentions. Issue 6 (3rd June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Trawley, Steven L.; Stephens, Amanda N.; Rendell, Peter G.; Groeger, John A.
• Is Part Of: Ergonomics. Volume 60:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 780
• Page End: 790
• Publication Date: 2017-06-03
• Subjects: Prospective memory -- delayed intentions -- distractions -- virtual environment -- driving simulator -- driving; Human engineering -- Periodicals; Cybernetics -- Periodicals; Industrial management -- Periodicals; Ergonomie -- Périodiques; Cybernétique -- Périodiques; Gestion d'entreprise -- Périodiques; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2016.1214288
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0014-0139

Abstract

Abstract: Prospective memories can divert attentional resources from ongoing activities. However, it is unclear whether these effects and the theoretical accounts that seek to explain them will generalise to a complex real-world task such as driving. Twenty-four participants drove two simulated routes while maintaining a fixed headway with a lead vehicle. Drivers were given either event-based (e.g. arriving at a filling station) or time-based errands (e.g. on-board clock shows 3:30). In contrast to the predominant view in the literature which suggests time-based tasks are more demanding, drivers given event-based errands showed greater difficulty in mirroring lead vehicle speed changes compared to the time-based group. Results suggest that common everyday secondary tasks, such as scouting the roadside for a bank, may have a detrimental impact on driving performance. The additional finding that this cost was only evident with the event-based task highlights a potential area of both theoretical and practical interest. Practitioner Summary: Drivers were given either time- or event-based errands whilst engaged in a simulated drive. We examined the effect of errands on an ongoing vehicle follow task. In contrast to previous non-driving studies, event-based errands are more disruptive. Common everyday errands may have a detrimental impact on driving performance.