Analysis of part-task training using the backward-transfer technique.

Researchers conducted 2 experiments that used backward transfer to improve the efficiency of part-task training for a desktop flight simulator. In Experiment 1, a part-task group showed positive transfer but did not perform as well as a whole-task group. Backward-transfer analysis indicated that only a subset of the component tasks was critical to the criterion task. In Experiment 2, a part-task training regime that used the critical component tasks was compared with a whole-task regime and a part-task regime composed of noncritical component tasks. Results indicated that the critical part-task regime was as effective as the whole-task regime, validating the utility of the backward-transfer technique.

Integrated displays and the perception of graphical data.

Three experiments are presented that apply a principle of compatibility of proximity to the perception of graphical data. These experiments demonstrate that the merits and costs of integral displays relative to separable displays depend in part on the task being performed. Experiment 1 employs a data extrapolation task in which information must be integrated. Here an integral display is found to be superior to a separable display. Experiment 2 employed a data perception task that requires focused attention. This reveals superior performance with separable displays. Experiment 3 employed a multiple cue judgement task in which information integration could be manipulated. Data from Experiment 3 were analysed using the Brunswick lens procedures, and indicated that knowledge of the task structure was influenced by the display type. When selective attention was required, knowledge of the task was superior with separable displays. The results are discussed with reference to the principle of compatibility of proximity, and the implications of the results for the perception of scientific data are noted.