Parametrization and validation of the N-SEEV Attention Model for Visual and Auditory scenes

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The analysis of complex and dynamic environments is cognitively demanding because they require the constant filtering, processing and integrating of a considerable amount of information - much of it irrelevant - in order to understand the interaction between various factors and to gauge the evolution of an unpredictable situation. These environments are conducive to the manifestation of cognitive phenomena that can reduce situation awareness and the quality of decisions (e.g., tunnelling, inattentional blindness). The conceptual framework of NSEEV (noticing; salience, expectancy, eccentricity, value) that offers a model of noticing events in the task environment and predicts supervisory control scanning behavior can be used as a basis for modelling cognitive functioning in critical work environments by offering the possibility to predict the efficiency of information processing, modulation of cognitive load, and distribution of attention in a dynamic workspace (Wickens, 2021). NSEEV provides the theoretical basis necessary to model the cognitive processes associated with several critical work situations; it also provides the parameters to potentially operationalize some premises of the situation awareness concept (frequently used in cognitive ergonomics), and seems promising to interpret the pattern of eye movements that could suggest cognitive vulnerabilities. NSEEV allows for testable predictions that can be assessed within a real-world context. The proposed work will adopt a methodology of microworld, a complex and realistic simulation that retains some of the ecological validity of a time-pressured, multi-tasking work environment, but crucially also allows a high degree of experimental control enabling one to determine cause and effect relationships. A first series of experiments is designed to empirically validate the NSEEV conceptual framework, and also to model cognitive functioning by testing the vulnerability of cognitive processes inherent in complex and dynamic environments (Theme 1). Additionally, the project aims to extend the framework beyond the noticing of visual stimuli to assess whether the identified parameters might impose similar constraints on the deployment of attention in the auditory domain (Theme 2). A final objective is to use the NSEEV framework to guide training to help mitigate some of the cognitive fallibilities that emerge under extreme work conditions (Theme 3). A greater understanding of the fundamental processes involved in the distribution of attention in complex work settings - both auditory and visual - will help inform practical applications of the work. A theoretically driven framework to advise on training procedures would undoubtedly be valuable, and could go some way towards mitigating the vulnerabilities of human cognition that are exposed under conditions of high complexity and workload.