Measuring working memory load effects on electrophysiological markers of attention orienting during a simulated drive. Issue 3 (4th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ross, Veerle; Vossen, Alexandra Y.; Smulders, Fren T. Y.; Ruiter, Robert A. C.; Brijs, Tom; Brijs, Kris; Wets, Geert; Jongen, Ellen M. M.
• Is Part Of: Ergonomics. Volume 61:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 429
• Page End: 443
• Publication Date: 2018-03-04
• Subjects: Attention orienting -- working memory load -- event-related potentials -- driving simulation; Human engineering -- Periodicals; Cybernetics -- Periodicals; Industrial management -- Periodicals; Ergonomie -- Périodiques; Cybernétique -- Périodiques; Gestion d'entreprise -- Périodiques; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2017.1353708
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0014-0139

Abstract

Abstract: Intersection accidents result in a significant proportion of road fatalities, and attention allocation likely plays a role. Attention allocation may depend on (limited) working memory (WM) capacity. Driving is often combined with tasks increasing WM load, consequently impairing attention orienting. This study ( n = 22) investigated WM load effects on event-related potentials (ERPs) related to attention orienting. A simulated driving environment allowed continuous lane-keeping measurement. Participants were asked to orient attention covertly towards the side indicated by an arrow, and to respond only to moving cars appearing on the attended side by pressing a button. WM load was manipulated using a concurrent memory task. ERPs showed typical attentional modulation (cue: contralateral negativity, LDAP; car: N1, P1, SN and P3) under low and high load conditions. With increased WM load, lane-keeping performance improved, while dual task performance degraded (memory task: increased error rate; orienting task: increased false alarms, smaller P3). Practitioner Summary: Intersection driver-support systems aim to improve traffic safety and flow. However, in-vehicle systems induce WM load, increasing the tendency to yield. Traffic flow reduces if drivers stop at inappropriate times, reducing the effectiveness of systems. Consequently, driver-support systems could include WM load measurement during driving in the development phase.