Page 194 - PPL-engelsk 2025

Human Performance

Divided attention requires a distribution of attention resources based on the

demands of each activity.

In routine situations, where one is doing two things at once, such as driving a

car while talking to a passenger, one may not necessarily demand more

attention resources. The same applies to activities that are easy to handle.

However, in unfamiliar situations or when doing activities with which one has

little experience, such as driving somewhere unknown or talking to a passenger

while trying to find a place one is not familiar with, it becomes more difficult to

divide and apply attention resources.

Similarly, the more things one has to manage at the same time, the more

attention resources are required.

2.7.3.3 Sustained attention

Sustained attention is used when one maintains a level of attention over an

extended period of time.

This form of attention is particularly used in activities with a consistent flow of

information, such as following a TV program or driving a car.

Sustained attention differs from vigilance, as vigilance is simply the

maintenance of attention at an appropriate level during relatively monotonous

activities where one must respond to more or less expected events.

Fishing is a perfect example: one may wait for hours but needs to react quickly

when the fish bites.

Flight Theory PPL(A)(UL)/LAPL Henning Andersen, Midtjysk Flyveskole© 2025 194