Processes mediating expertise in air traffic control

Abstract

Air traffic control (ATC) involves dealing with complex visualizations. Making decisions based on those visualizations requires not only conceptual but also perceptual skills, like efficient visual search of critical airplane compositions, their quick and correct interpretations, and the appropriate reactions. This study will examine expertise differences in perceiving and interpreting ATC stimuli on a perceptual and conceptual level. Moreover, the potentially mediating influence of spatial abilities will be investigated. ATC Performance, eye movements, verbal reports, and spatial ability will be obtained from experts, intermediates, and novices.