Electrophysiological investigation of dual-task interference

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Understanding multitasking limitations in normal human information processing is a key topic in psychology and the neurosciences. It not only helps us define what we, as human beings, can and cannot do at one time, but it also opens a fascinating window into the functional architecture of our cognitive system. Two simple paradigms have been widely used to study dual-task performance in the laboratory: the psychological refractory period paradigm and the attentional blink paradigm. The work conducted within this program of research will take advantage of powerful electrophysiological techniques recently developed to study multitasking interference in order to investigate thoroughly dual-task limitations within these two paradigms. Contrary to what was claimed by prevalent theories of dual-task interference, it has recently been discovered, using the event-related potential technique in combination with the psychological refractory period, that a first speeded auditory task interfers with early perceptual processing of a subsequent visual target. We will examine whether this early interference arises because of central capacity limitations, spatial shifts, sensory modality switching, or task switching. We will also use a similar approach to study whether several processes, such as emotional processing and error detection, require central attention resources. Whereas central capacity limitations are at the core of most extent theories of psychological refractory dual-task interference, its role in the attentional blink phenomenon is still under debate. Within the program, we will also investigate the role of central capacity limitations, distractor interference and misselection in the attentional blink. This research will provide valuable information for the development of a global model of dual-task performance that will help conceive better adapted human-machine interfaces and technologies which, in turn, will facilitate processing of the relevant information contained in our often overwhelming environment.