BIAS OF THE WEEK

Automation Bias

Research suggests the introducing automated decision aids does not always reduce human error, but can isntead create opportunities for different kinds of errors. 

Participants with an aid : 

  • Missed events when not prompted about them
  • Followed auto-recommendations even if it contradicted their training and other indicated 

When people heavily rely on automated systems, taking the path of least cognitive resistance, it can lead to a higher possibility of errors. 

See the full study here :

Skitka, L. J., Mosier, K. L., & Burdick, M. (1999). Does automation bias decision-making?. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies51(5), 991-1006,https://doi.org/10.1006/ijhc.1999.0252