Operationalization of non-formal theories in operator-models.pdf

Operationalization of non-formal theories in operator-models Thomas Jürgensohn, Thomas B. Sheridan 3-354 MIT, Cambridge MA 02139, USA, thomasj@mit.edu; sheridan@mit.edu Abstract Quantitative and formal models of dynamic actions of humans in machine environments are usually based on formalisms that interrelate measurable or computable features of behaviour or set up relations of these features with time. Mainly engineers have set up such models for about 50 years as a tool for the development of traffic systems, control rooms of nuclear power or chemical plants, or aircraft. Problems in these models do not lie in the dynamics of action, but in the description of influences, which are cognitive, motivational, or emotional. This paper deals with the integration of such factors, which are normally described non-formally in psychological theories and models into quantitative and formal models of dynamic action – explained for the modelling of motivational influences and mental models. The methodological problems are pointed out for the hypothetical example of driver assistant systems. 1 An example A typical example for formal modelling of driver behaviour is the modelling of the continuous steering of the vehicle. Such a model could be set up within the frame of developing a assisting system (e.g. obstacle assistant and predict the behaviour of the entire system). It is assumed, that the system supports the driver, but keeps him within the loop all the time. So, the driver can still be responsible for his actions. Figure. 1 Prediction of behaviour of vehicle A for sudden appearance of an obstacle B and traffic C To evaluate the system it is crucial to know whether an accident is avoided by the system in a statistical sense, or if there is the possibility that it can be harmful, for example by disturbing the driver in his actions. Since an accident here means contact with the obstacle, answering this question is only possible if the contact c