Detecting a Loss of Situational Awareness

Based within the aviation context, this research is attempting to detect a loss of situational awareness (SA) using Detection Response Tasks (DRT). The research is in two phases: an initial survey and then an experimentation phase. A survey has been distributed attempting to gain an understanding of what current aviation personnel understand of the construct of SA and how it is currently taught and assessed, and what are the observed indicators of a loss of SA. The survey results will be used to validate some previously identified elements of SA around the link between SA and cognitive capacity and workload, and the cognitive and physical indicators of SA loss. The survey results have provided input into the experimentation phase of the research project. In the experimentation phase, a DRT-style experiment using Modifiable Multitasking Environment (ModME) software will simulate pilot workloads and behaviours, and through gradual in-creases in workload, use the DRT responses as a cognitive performance indicator of a loss of SA