Norman and Shallice (Supervisory Attentional System)

Norman and Shallice proposed the Supervisory Attentional System (SAS) to describe how we manage our thoughts and actions, especially in complex or new situations. The SAS acts like a manager in a busy office, deciding which tasks to prioritize and directing our attention where it's needed most. It helps us switch from automatic responses to more controlled and flexible thinking, allowing us to solve problems, make decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. This system is crucial for tasks that require planning and self-regulation, highlighting how our cognitive processes work together to navigate daily life effectively.