Improving Alertness, Vigilance, and Memory when Performing Repetitive Tasks
CHALLENGE
Past studies revealed enhancing effects of scent on alertness, vigilance, and memory.
However, the role of scent and its emission method, in repetitive task over long durations, in promoting alertness, vigilance, and memory has yet been studied.
RESEARCH QUESTION
Do scent improve alertness, vigilance, and/or memory when one is performing a repetitive task over a long duration?
If so, does the emission technique play a role as well?
RESEARCH TECHNIQUES
Design: Eye-tracking and simulation
Qualitative: Survey
FINDINGS
Scent enhanced alertness and information recall.
Intermittent emission showed stronger effects than continuous emission in enhancing memory.
Scent did not appear to promote greater visual vigilance.
IMPLICATIONS
FOR PRACTICE
Organizations may consider emitting arousing ambient scent, particularly peppermint, intermittently in the workplace to promote alertness and memory, which may boost workforce productivity.
PUBLICATION
Poster (2019 International Communication Association Conference)