
Dr Nicolas Hawkins FHEA
About
My research project
Intuitive analysis: An investigation of Dual Process dynamics for resource allocation decisions in a small business contextMy research aims to extend knowledge in two main areas: first, in identifying the processes used in making resource allocation decisions in a business context; second, in understanding how these processes utilise conscious and non-conscious mental activities.
PhD awarded 29 Feb 2024.
Supervisors
My research aims to extend knowledge in two main areas: first, in identifying the processes used in making resource allocation decisions in a business context; second, in understanding how these processes utilise conscious and non-conscious mental activities.
PhD awarded 29 Feb 2024.
Teaching
Currently lecturing at Cornwall Business School, Falmouth.
Publications
Research was carried out to investigate the dynamic relationship between Dual Process Theory’s two categories of Intuitive (Type 1) and Analytic (Type 2) processing. A Structured Observational methodology was applied, in two studies with a total of thirty-nine participants, involving a simulation of a real-world decision for a small business owner needing to select from a list of investment options in order to expand their business. Using protocol analysis, with participants thinking aloud as they performed the decision-making exercise, verbal data was gathered. Template analysis was used to create a typology of Tasks and Subtasks representing the activities and processes used. The data was then examined using a logical sequence starting with a meta-decision relating to method, followed by information gathering, option generation, evaluation and selection of options, and finally acting upon the selection/s made. Gaps in the explicit process observed were deemed to imply that these Tasks were carried out implicitly. This assumption was supported by post-exercise interviews, where participants answered questions relating to their activities. Data were compared to key characteristics of four extant dynamic models of DPT. None were seen to be a complete fit, and a new model was proposed in order to develop these theories and better align with the data. This new model, named Default-Supplementary, suggests that Type 1 processing is used by default, with Type 2 triggered as needed based on a wide range of factors – triggering being a Type 1 activity. Type 2 processing is not independent of Type 1, as it cannot be “turned off”, and the two processing types influence each other until a response is generated. Recent research into dispersed neurological networks was used to develop potential mechanisms and architecture for the DS model.