Time in the Control of a Dynamic Environment

Abstract

Because of their intrinsic nature, it is fundamental to consider the temporal dimension when studying control in dynamic situations. However, the temporal aspect is often taken for granted and not accounted for in cognitive or control models. The present study aims to understand the role of temporal estimation in the control of a dynamic task, within the Contextual Control Model (COCOM). Particularly, the main objective is to evaluate how time pressure influences the estimation of available and required time. A dynamic situation, which includes two sub-tasks, the pursuit of a target and the avoidance of hostile contacts, is used. Results show that both available and required estimated times, as well as performance, decrease with increased time pressure. These findings suggest that when faced with a high level of time pressure, people adapt their strategies by giving up an offensive mode of control, in favor of a more defensive one, earlier in the game.