Effects of Variable-Priority Training on Automation-Related Complacency: Performance and Eye Movements

The effectiveness of variable-priority training in reducing automation-related complacency was examined. Participants were trained under one of three attention allocation strategies, whole task (WT), part task (PT), or variable priority (VP). They subsequently monitored an automated system while simultaneously performing tracking and fuel management tasks. Eye movements were recorded to investigate attention allocation strategies. Results pointed to a trend for VP training to reduce complacency, compared to WT or PT training. The relationship between performance in each of the three training groups and eye movements to the automated task was inconsistent.