9601465 SCHWEICKERT Someone performing a task such as searching a screen for a symbol of a certain size and shape must carry out mental processes, such as perceiving, remembering, and deciding. In some situations the processes must be carried out in a certain order, for example when the output of one process is the input to another. In other situations, there may be several ways in which the processes could be ordered, for example, if two responses are to be made and there is a choice about which response to make first. These choices sometimes lead to scheduling problems. Major scheduling conflicts arise from competition for space in working memory, where information relevant to an ongoing task is held for a short time. All evidence points to the conclusion that working memory space is very limited, so that usually only one process can use it actively at a time. For example, there is evidence that mental arithmetic cannot be carried out simultaneously with a search of memory. This research will explore the possibility that certain processes can use working memory simultaneously. The main processes of interest are those that prepare or set up the working memory space for processes that are immanent. These preparation processes operate behind the scenes, so to speak, and may not make intensive demands for space themselves. Preparatory processes of special interest are those that schedule the upcoming processes. One hypothesis to be tested is whether preparation of upcoming processes can be carried out simultaneously with other ongoing processing. This research would not be feasible if it were not possible to figure out whether covert mental processes are executed concurrently or sequentially, and, if they are sequential, what the order of execution is. A methodology for doing this, Latent Network Theory, was developed in previous research. It is based on reaction time and other performance measures. While this research is fundamental in na ture, it will help us understand the performance of humans in the sorts of speeded tasks that arise in all manner of practical arenas, such as the operation of complex equipment, and the design of those tasks (and the relevant equipment) so that they build on the capabilities of the humans who will have to perform them. ***
