Executing deferred tasks in dynamic multitasking environments

This thesis examines how individuals' prospective memory abilities in complex dynamic work environments, such as air traffic control, are affected by situational factors such as task interruptions. I introduce an ecologically motivated simulated air traffic control paradigm designed to assess the effects of interruptions on both deferred tasks and routine air traffic management. Across three experiments I demonstrate how properties of the deferred task and situational factors impact prospective memory performance and elucidate the underlying cognitive mechanisms. This thesis enhances our theoretical understanding of prospective memory and interruptions and has practical implications for optimising performance in complex dynamic work environments.