A Comparison of Single- and Dual-Task Measures to Predict Pilot Performance.

Abstract : An experiment comparing the predictive validity of single- versus dual-task measures is reported. Fifty-seven males received two trials on each of two identical one-dimensional compensatory tracking tasks. The subjects then attempted to perform the tasks concurrently for 25 trails. Finally, they performed each task alone for one trial. The subjects then were given a short basic flight course consisting of ground instruction and practice in a GAT-2 simulator. After completing the course, the subjects were asked to perform four repetitions of a descent, a descent followed by a stall, and a level turn. Performance was scored by an instructor and an observer. Performance in the simulator then was correlated with performance on each tracking trial. The predictive validity of the early single-task scores decreased with practice while the dual-task validity increased throughout the testing session. However, the predictive validity of the late single-task scores was almost as large as that of the late dual-task scores. Possible explanations for the results are given. (Author)