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The impact of working memory load on task execution and online plan adjustment during multitasking in a virtual
Anna S Law1, Steven L Trawley, Louise A Brown
1Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street,Liverpool, UK. a.law@ljmu.ac.uk
Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology (2006)
|December 14, 2012
Summary
Multitasking performance relies on spatial working memory and executive functions, not verbal memory. Even with a poor initial plan, individuals can adjust strategies online to successfully complete tasks.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Multitasking requires effective planning and adaptation.
- Working memory plays a crucial role in cognitive control and task management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how working memory load affects online plan adjustment during multitasking.
- To determine the specific working memory components (phonological loop, executive functions, spatial working memory) involved in multitasking.
Main Methods:
- Three experiments used the Edinburgh Virtual Errands Test (EVET) to assess multitasking.
- Participants memorized good or poor plans and performed EVET under different working memory loads (articulatory suppression, random generation, spatial localization).
Main Results:
- Executive function and spatial working memory loads, but not phonological loop load, disrupted multitasking performance.
- Participants could overcome poor initial plans through online adjustments.
Conclusions:
- Multitasking performance is significantly influenced by spatial working memory and executive functions.
- Online plan modification is a key strategy for successful multitasking, even under cognitive load.
