Demonstrating a Methodology for Assessing Cognitive Capacities across Sensory Systems: M-SWAP

Abstract

This demonstration highlights the development of and applications of a methodology for assessing cognitive workload across three sensory systems: vision, audition, and touch. The methodology, called Multi-Sensory Workload Assessment Protocol (M-SWAP), is typically administered simultaneously with the primary task of interest. Participants are presented with a random series of visual, auditory, or vibrotactile signals and are asked to respond via a response box after receiving a certain number of these signals. Counting errors are scored in terms of both classic and fuzzy signal detection metrics (hits, misses, false alarms, and correct rejections), and the number of errors is indicative of the operator's cognitive-perceptual workload. The demand level of M-SWAP is scalable, which avoids traditional ceiling effects.