Psychobiological Measures as Predictors of Sonar Operator Performance.
Abstract
This report describes the application of a relatively new technology, the visual event related brain potential (VERP) method of brain wave analysis, as a possible means of improving the prediction of performance of sonar operators. The subjects, 26 trainees at the Fleet Antisubmarine Warfare (ASW) School, were assigned to a HIGH or LOW group based on their performance of a sonar simulator task. Eight channels of VERP data were recorded for each subject from scalp contact electrodes, and microvolt root means square amplitude measures were computed for the wave forms at each of the eight electrode sites. To assess relationships between the brain's right hemisphere (RH) and left hemisphere (LH), asymmetry measures were computed by subtracting the LH amplitude value from the RH value for each of the homologous sites. Results of discriminate analysis performed to discriminate the HIGH and LOW groups showed smaller VERP amplitudes for the HIGH group than for the LOW group. Also, hemispheric asymmetry was greater for the LOW than the HIGH group, especially in the occipital (visual processing) area of the head. Aptitude tests used by the Navy in selecting recruits for sonar training showed no differences between the two performance groups. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA085030
Entities
People
- Bernard Rimland
- Gregory W. Lewis