In what way does practicing a task affect its resource demand according to the resource model of attention?

Practicing a task typically leads to a reduction in resource demand due to increased efficiency and skill with the task over time. The resource model of attention posits that when a person first engages in a complex task, it requires a significant amount of cognitive resources, which can lead to diminished performance on other simultaneous tasks due to the high attentional load.

As the individual practices the task, the cognitive processes involved become more automated, allowing for greater fluency and less conscious effort. This means that the task becomes less demanding on available attentional resources, enabling the individual to perform the task more efficiently and freeing up cognitive resources for additional tasks or processes.

In essence, through repeated practice, individuals are able to lower the cognitive load associated with a task as they gain familiarity and competence, making it easier to perform while engaging in dual-tasking or managing other cognitive demands. This is aligned with the principles of skill acquisition and the notion that practice leads to automation of cognitive processes.