Can you explain the concept of mental workload and how it can be measured?

Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of mental workload and how it can be measured?

Sample answer:

  1. Concept of Mental Workload:
    • Mental workload refers to the cognitive effort an individual expends to complete a task or a set of tasks.
  • It involves various mental processes such as perception, attention, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving.

  • Mental workload is affected by factors like task complexity, time pressure, information load, and individual differences.

  • High mental workload can lead to fatigue, stress, decreased performance, and even errors.

  1. Methods for Measuring Mental Workload:
    • Subjective Measures:
      • Questionnaires and surveys that directly ask individuals about their perceived mental workload. Commonly used methods include:
        • NASA-Task Load Index (TLX)
        • Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT)
        • Workload Profile (WP)
      • These methods provide self-reported data on workload, but may be influenced by factors like individual perceptions and attitudes.
  • Behavioral Measures:

    • Measurements of performance outcomes, such as task completion time, error rates, and response latencies.
    • High mental workload may be indicated by slower reaction times, increased errors, and reduced task efficiency.
  • Physiological Measures:

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