EAGER: Improving Human Performance in Routine Activities Using Interactive Role Playing Games

University Of Houston, Houston TX

Investigators

Abstract

This complex proposal is a pioneering effort aimed at exploring novel methods to counter boredom associated with repetitive tasks. The approach, based on a pilot study, is to design appropriate interactive options in the form of computer games and other activities requiring imaginative thinking. The premise taken is that multiplexing an interesting task in a background monitoring task can lead to improved engagement and, indirectly, improved performance. The concept has been successfully tested in a pilot study and it is proposed to build new application designs suitable for effective dual tasking.