Application of a Mathematical Model of Human Decisionmaking for Human-Computer Communication

When a human and computer perform similar tasks in parallel, it is important that there be effective communication between the two entities. Because explicit communication may add to the human's workload, an implicit method of communication is suggested in which the computer references a model of human performance to predict the human's actions. The computer then determines its own actions so as to complement rather than conflict with the predicted human actions. A two-stage mathematical model of human performance is employed in an experimental situation in which both a human and computer act as decisionmakers. Implementation of the model significantly improves the human's performance, without degrading the computer's performance. Research into additional experimental and real-world situations is suggested.