Summary
This module
presented the basics of human memory and information processing.
The three basic memory components were introduced: sensory, short-term/working,
and long-term. The strengths and limitations of each were described
as well as the three basic memory processes: encoding, maintenance,
retrieval. Christopher Wickens' memory model was used to elaborate
on these basic components and processes and to emphasize the importance
of attention resources in task performance.
The
importance of taking into account attention resources in human-to-system
interface design was discussed. Specially covered was the need to
focus the user's attention on information supportive of task performance
while reducing distractions and attention-competing information
sources. In addition, the limitations of working memory, our mental
workbench, was presented with attendant recommendations for memory
aids. Also included were memory encoding techniques and long-term
memory storage and retrieval.
The
section on decision making set forth the most prevalent theories
of how humans make decisions in everyday life and how computers
can aid more complex decision making. The final part of the module
covered some workload assessment techniques. These techniques are
used to evaluate cognitive load in task performance with the goal
of designing interfaces and tasks that neither bore nor overload
the human user.
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