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Ways to Improve Multitasking: Effects of Predictability after Single- and Dual-Task Training
Harald Ewolds1, Laura Broeker2, Rita F de Oliveira3
1University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany.
Journal of Cognition
|January 28, 2021
Summary
Predictability improves performance in specific tasks but does not enhance dual-task performance. This task-specific effect suggests that freed-up resources from predictable tasks cannot be re-invested into other tasks.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Human Performance
Background:
- Dual-task performance is crucial for everyday activities.
- Predictability in tasks can influence cognitive load and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of predictability on dual-task performance.
- To determine if predictability in one task can benefit performance in a concurrent, unrelated task.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted involving a tracking task and an auditory reaction time task.
- Participants practiced tasks with predictable elements, with varying levels of explicit knowledge.
- Single- and dual-task performance was assessed after training and in a retention test.
Main Results:
- Predictability enhanced performance solely within the predictable tasks.
- Dual-task costs were eliminated for the predictable tracking task.
- Simultaneous training of predictable tasks did not lead to resource reallocation benefits for the other task.
Conclusions:
- Predictability exerts a positive but task-specific influence on performance.
- Cognitive resources freed by predictability in one task are not transferable to improve performance in another task.
