Experimental evaluation of an elemental resource model for human performance

The model describes the human system in terms of a pool of basic elements of performance (e.g. elbow flexion strength, visual memory, etc.). Each element represents a quantifiable (theoretically) performance resource with a specific dimensionality. It is hypothesized that resources are drawn upon in different combinations and different amounts by any specified task. This, implies that the ability to accomplish a specific goal depends on the amount of a specific resource available compared to worst case demands on it over the course of the task sequence, and that any one resource can be the limiting factor if not available in a sufficient amount (resource economics). Data from an experiment designed to investigate the above hypothesis show that subjects in higher-task-difficulty groups possessed correspondingly more of the basic performance resources.<>