The effects of a simulated cellular phone conversation on search for traffic signs in an elderly sample

ABSTRACT

The effects of clutter and a simulated cellular telephone conversation on search for traffic signs were investigated using eye movement and reaction time measures. One-half of an elderly sample searched for traffic signs while simultaneously listening to a story, followed by 15 “yes or no” questions. This simulated cellular phone conversation had detrimental effects on reaction time, fixation number and fixation duration. Performance decrements observed might be an indication of the demands cellular telephones have on a driver's processing resources. In addition, these methods could be used to further investigate the safety implementation of using a cellular telephone while driving.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  J. Computer Applications

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.6 SIMULATION AND MODELING

  J. Computer Applications
  J.4 SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
      Subjects: Psychology

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors, Management, Measurement, Performance, Theory

Keywords:
aging, cellular telephone use, conspicuity, driving performance, eye movements, traffic signs