20.2 Human Factors and Ergonomics

Human factors and ergonomics focus on optimizing how humans interact with systems. This field blends psychology, engineering, and design to improve both human well-being and system performance by adapting tasks and environments to our capabilities.

Cognitive factors like attention, perception, and memory play crucial roles in human-machine interaction. These shape how we process information, make decisions, and interact with interfaces, influencing everything from smartphone use to air traffic control.

Understanding Human Factors and Ergonomics in Cognitive Psychology

Human factors and ergonomics definition

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• Human factors and ergonomics (HF&E) encompass human-system interaction optimization
• HF&E aims to enhance human well-being and system performance simultaneously
• Multidisciplinary approach integrates psychology, engineering, and design principles
• Focuses on adapting systems, tasks, and environments to human capabilities (physical and cognitive)

Cognitive factors in human-machine interaction

• Attention shapes task focus and information filtering (cockpit displays)
• Perception influences interface interpretation and signal detection (dashboard warning lights)
• Memory affects task execution and information retention (ATM PIN entry)
• Mental models guide user expectations and system interaction (smartphone interfaces)
• Information processing speed impacts reaction times in critical situations (emergency braking)
• Spatial cognition facilitates navigation and object manipulation (3D modeling software)

Cognitive psychology in interface design

• User-centered design incorporates mental models for intuitive interactions (touchscreen gestures)
• Information architecture reduces cognitive load through effective organization (website menus)
• Feedback and affordances provide clear system status and action possibilities (progress bars)
• Error prevention anticipates common mistakes and offers recovery options (undo buttons)
• Accessibility considerations accommodate diverse cognitive abilities (adjustable text sizes)
• Usability testing methods like think-aloud protocols and eye-tracking reveal user behavior patterns

Impact of workload on performance

• Cognitive workload affects task accuracy and completion times (air traffic control)
• Stress influences decision-making quality and risk assessment (emergency response)
• Fatigue from circadian rhythm disruption impairs cognitive function (shift work)
• High-stakes environments demand specialized cognitive strategies (surgical procedures)
• Workload management techniques include task prioritization and attention allocation
• Assessment tools measure subjective and physiological indicators of cognitive strain (NASA-TLX)