Both the constraining and enabling forces of attention load interact when decision-makers solve complex problems effectively. Synthesizing strands of educational, cognitive psychology, as well as organization research, we develop a conceptual process framework. It explains the ways in which extrinsic, intrinsic, and germane attention load dynamics shape attention capacity which is necessary for developing a mental model of the problem. In particular, the paper adds internal and external context elements -problem characteristics, frames and support- that influence how attention load unfolds within the problem-solving process. Contributions are intended to be made to attention, problem-solving and decision-making literatures, and to current efforts at making bounded rationality assumptions more humanistic.
Language
English
Keywords
Attention capacity
Attention load
problem-solving
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Book title
Academy of Management Annual Meeting Proceedings
Publisher
Academy of Management
Start page
40
Event Title
74th Academy of Management Annual Meeting (AOM) 2014 "The Power of Words"