bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skilled Performance: Computer Software
Authors: Peio Karen J. , Klein Helen A.
Published: January 2012

Training technology has traditionally addressed issues that have been limited to the acquisition of knowledge at skill levels far below those of highly skilled performers. Knowledge about the changes that occur as a result of extensive experience are potentially useful in understanding highly proficient performance. Empirical evidence suggests that experts differ from novices in the cues used to achieve a target performance. It appears that recognitional capacities of experts differ from those of novices. A Reperatory Grid Technique was the means used to investigate differences in recognitional capacities of expert and novice software specialists. Task dimensions of a variety of algorithms for the problem of critical path analysis were elicited from subject matter experts by means of a matching technique. Expert and novice computer programmers then used the empirically determined dimensions to rank nine algorithms.

Discriminant analyses performed on the data indicated successful separation of the novice and expert groups on the majority of dimensions used. Furthermore, the analyses indicated which individuals were correctly classified as experts or novices solely on the basis of scores on the dimensions. The results of this study provide support for the hypothesis that as expertise is achieved, the perceptual cues used by the proficient performer differ from those of novices.
Evaluation of Strategies of File Management Behavior
Authors: Spine Thomas M. , Whiteside John A. , Williges Robert C.
Published: January 2012

A critical component of computer interface design is the specification of a file management system. Although much is known about how humans organize and classify information and objects, there have been few investigations of the performance consequences of alternative computer filing systems. This paper presents the results of an experimental study of how the organizational capabilities of interactive computer filing systems affect the ability of users to manage sets of information. This study compared the use of flat versus hierarchical, and keyword versus non-keyword filing systems. Each of 16 subjects performed a two-part filing and retrieval task using one of four filing system configurations. Subjects first organized and arranged a set of 50 computer files according to the constraints and capabilities of one of the four filing systems. During retrieval the subjects were required to locate certain files and perform common computer operations on them. Task completion time is used as a measure of ease of filing and retrieval for each system. Strategies of file retrieval as a function of the filing system are also discussed.
Inserting Human Factors Considerations Earlier in the Weapon Systems Acquisition Process
Authors: Council CDR George S.
Published: January 2012

The Navy's HARDMAN program aims to improve consideration of manpower and training issues in the weapon systems acquisition process. Lessons learned in its implementation are valuable in attempting to enhance the role of human factors engineering in the acquisition process.
Information Processing in the Visual Periphery: Influence of Mental Workload
Authors: Acosta Enrique , Dickman J. David
Published: January 2012

Two experiments examined the effects of the mental workload of various foveal task requirements on the identification of briefly presented symbols to the visual periphery. Results are discussed in light of two models (tunnel vision and constant decrement) that describe the relationship between mental workload and information processing in the visual periphery.
Speech Recognition as an Aid to Productivity in Word Processing
Authors: Hakkinen Markku T. , Alvarez Maria G. , Murray J. Thomas
Published: January 2012

The use of speech recognition in the area of office automation has received little experimental evaluation. Most speech recognition studies have involved testing in military command and control or aircraft environments. Speech control of spreadsheet and word processing programs is discussed by various manufacturers and in the popular press, yet no empirical data have been presented to substantiate its use in these applications. In one of the few studies applicable to the office environment (Murray, Van Praag, and Gilfoil, 1983), the use of speech to control cursor motion was found to be less efficient than the use of traditional cursor keys.

To justify the expense of adding equipment to an office workstation, a significant increase in worker productivity needs to be demonstrated. The dedicated word processing operator, involved in the task of transcribing large quantities of textual data from hardcopy or dictation tapes, was chosen for examination in this study.

The majority of word processing operator keystroke activity is within the QWERTY portion of the text entry keyboard. However, many of the necessary control operations used during text entry are located on dedicated or soft function keys. These function keys are often located well away from the QWERTY portion of the keyboard, interrupting the touch typist's activity in order to locate and activate the appropriate key.

In this study, the use of speech input to select operations normally assigned to function keys was evaluated. It was hypothesized that the operator would experience less distraction in the primary task of text entry when operations were selected verbally rather than by manual activation of the function keys. This would be reflected in reduced text entry time and possible reduction in keystroke errors when selecting operations. In contrast to the earlier study examining speech control of a cursor positioning task in which speech was found to be inferior to manual control, this study used speech to control discrete operations.

Subjects were experienced word processing operators. The primary task was transcription of text documents requiring frequent format changes. The subjects were placed in two groups. Group I was trained to operate a word processing package in which control operations were selected by using hard and soft function keys located above and to the right of the QWERTY keypad. Group II was trained to use the identical word processing software, with the difference being that control operations were selected by using speech input. Data collected and analyzed included time to complete the text entry task, number of entry errors, number of command errors, and subjective ratings of operator satisfaction with the system used.
A Practical Approach to Human Factors: One Insurance Company's Experience
Authors: Assunto Karen
Published: January 2012

Aetna's People/Technology Programs unit is responsible for assessing the impact of technology on Aetna employees. The staff of the unit, while basing their work on studies by human factors professionals, concentrates on practical ways for management to incorporate technology into the office environment to achieve the best business result.
The Effects of Transient Adaptation on VDT Operations
Authors: Lassiter Donald L. , Rinalducci Edward J.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of transient adaptation in a simulated VDT operation. Specifically, the study attempted to determine transient adaptational effects that may result in visibility losses or decrements in visual performance, when an observer shifts his or her point of regard from a region of higher overall luminance (e.g., a negative contrast source document with dark characters on a light background) to a region of lower overall luminance (e.g., a positive contrast video display with light characters on a dark background), and vice versa. The source document and VDT display were simulated using a back-projection, free-viewing apparatus. The luminance shifts made up the two transient conditions: a downward change in luminance level (i.e., negative to positive contrast displays), and an upward change in luminance level (i.e., positive to negative contrast displays). The results of these two transient state conditions were compared to two steady state conditions in which there was no change in luminance level or flash contrast thresholds (i.e., Sloan-Snellen test-letter flash was superimposed on the display) were determined using the up-and-down psychophysical method combined with the forced-choice technique and knowledge of results. The ratio of the transient state contrast threshold to the steady state contrast threshold served as an index of visibility loss. The goal of the research due to transient adaptation in VDT operations, but to also determine possible advantages and disadvantages of positive vs. negative contrast video displays.
American and Saudi Arabian College Students: A Comparison of Road Traffic Accidents
Authors: Koushki Parviz A.
Published: January 2012

The traffic accident characteristics of a random sample of 600 students from four colleges and universities in the U.S. and a stratified random sample of 1000 university students from two institutions of higher education in Saudi Arabia were examined. While 41 percent of the U.S. sample students owned their own cars, 83 percent of the Saudi students sampled owned at least one auto. Over 100 of these car-owning Saudi students did not hold driver's licenses. The percentage of students surveyed who had not experienced any road traffic accidents were 55 and 20.5 for the American and the Saudi samples, respectively. The mean number of traffic accidents per Saudi student was 1.28 which is nearly double that of college students in the U.S. The average fatality rate of the Saudi college student was 25 times that of their American counterparts. While 49.4 percent of the U.S. college student accidents were caused by drugs and alcohol, more than 40 percent of the total Saudi college student accidents were caused by high speed.
Human Operator Control of a Bilateral Teleoperator in Part-Simulation of Zero Gravity
Authors: Corker Kevin , Reger James
Published: January 2012

An experimental investigation has been undertaken at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to address issues associated with manual control of a teleoperated manipulator operated in an earth orbital environment (e.g., the Shuttle Remote Manipulator System (RMS)). Manual control of a teleoperator and the effect of microgravity on the operator's performance were examined using a force-reflecting hand controller (FRHC) and a gravity compensation system to simulate the effect of microgravity on the operator's arm. The kinematic and dynamic characteristics of the operator's arm and hand play a fundamental role in bilateral (backdriven) teleoperator control. Two control experiments were performed in this study: (a) verification of a linear damped harmonic oscillator model of human neuromotor control in trajectory formation and stability in standard one gravity (lg) operation, and (b) force tracking along simulated planes of resistance subject to unit pulse disturbance in simulated zero g operation. The results of the experiments verified the utility of the neuromotor model in teleoperator control performance and confirmed the existence of disturbance of human manual control performance associated with the micro-gravity condition. The results illustrate that compensatory techniques to return performance to a level commensurate with, or superior to, standard one gravity operation could be derived. These techniques are based on the human control model, and instituted through FRHC control parameter adjustment.
Visual Clarity: Some Determinants
Authors: Gettu Shyam N. , Bennett Corwin A.
Published: January 2012

Research by Flynn showed three primary factors of subjective reactions to lighting, “evaluation” (or “pleasantness”), “spatiousness” and “visual clarity” (or “perceptual clarityw” or, just, “clarity”). While earlier, British, researchers have emphasized color as determinants of clarity, light intensity determinants seem foremost. An experiment in which working plane luminance, ceiling luminaire luminance and area were varied and related to clarity was carried out. Regression analysis showed a substantial, though incomplete explanation of clarity from these results.
Concept Flying—A Method for Deriving Unique System Requirements
Authors: Simons John C. , Hottman Stephen B.
Published: January 2012

This article discusses a methodology for flying advanced concepts for piloted vehicles and proposed applications for that methodology. Concept flying, in the most simplistic definition, can be pictured as scaling down a flight environment, inserting operators, and then intuitively looking at the operators response in the situation.
Initial Development of an Automated Task Analysis Profiling System
Authors: Jorgensen C. C.
Published: January 2012

A program for automated task analysis is described. Called TAPS (task analysis profiling system), the program accepts normal English prose and outputs skills, knowledges, attitudes, and abilities (SKAAs) along with specific guidance and recommended ability measurement tests for nuclear power plant operators. A new method for defining SKAAs is presented along with a sample program output.
Defense Training Technology Applications
Authors: Boycan G. Gary
Published: January 2012

The Joint Service Research and Development program promotes the application of technology to solve manpower, personnel, and training (MPT) problems common to the military Services. The program originated in the 1978 House Armed Services Committee (HASC) hearings on military MPT issues, and subsequent HASC requests for tri-service coordination and funding of Defense-wide efforts. It is administered through a Joint Service Research and Development Steering Committee, which has representatives of each Service. Since funding for the program is in the engineering development category, it is essential that products be demonstrated and evaluated within a short time, usually three years. The products represent a culmination of successful laboratory research and development. The panel describes five of the products.

TRAID consists of a library of computer-based instructional programs which is sufficiently flexible to support development, delivery, and management to meet most Service instructional requirements. Each of the Service training laboratories participate, to synthesize work related to computer-based instruction across are those which have been successfully demonstrated within the developing Service.

Language Skills Computer Assisted Instruction, developed by the Navy Personnel Research and Development Center (NPRDC), automates literacy instruction It applies a diagnostic-prescriptive approach to remedial reading, using material from Navy manuals.

The Computerized Hand-held Instructional Prototype, CHIP, is a revision of the Army Research Institute's (ARI) tutor device CHIP combines the miniaturization advances in semiconductor technology with the advantages of computer-based instruction, providing adaptive training, controlled feedback, self-pacing, and effective drill and practice in non-traditional settings.

The Personal Electronic Aid for Maintenance (PEAM) is a joint venture of the Naval Training Equipment Center and ARI. PEAM improves the productivity of the organizational level maintenance technician by enhancing the quality, management, and delivery of technical information through an automated maintenance information system.

Interactive Videodisc Instruction for Basic Skills Training, supported by 14 video-discs, is an ARI program. The training covers spatial orientation and navigational skills, study and test-taking skills, problem solving, and other learning strategies. Instruction is presented in the context of the Army Skill Qualification Test, Expert Infantryman's Badge, and tactical exercises. Additional land navigation materials are under development for the commander of the MI Abrams tank.

Demonstrations of the technologies, following the presentations, allow the audience to sample these Joint Service program products.
The Eye Blink and Workload Considerations
Authors: Stern John A. , Skelly June J.
Published: January 2012

Two parameters of the eye blink, blink rate and blink duration, were used to assess workload in two independent operational studies. Both studies involved high fidelity strategic bomber mission simulations. The first study was an extended wartime mission where workload was evaluated during mission segments. The second study involved shorter, discrete training missions where task difficulty was systematically manipulated. Both studies produced complementary results. Results show that: (1) blink rate is significantly affected by task demands; (2) blink rate is sensitive to task modality; (3) blink duration is significantly affected by task modality and complexity; and (4) blink duration is a sensitive index of time on task effects.

These data support the use of eye blink measurement in “noisy” complex environments as both a feasible and valuable assessment technique.
Part-Training Strategies in Simulated Carrier Landing Final Approach Training
Authors: Wightman Dennis C. , Lintern Gavan
Published: January 2012

A transfer-of-training investigation of part-task training was conducted at the Navy's Visual Technology Research Simulator (VTRS). A task segmentation strategy (backward chaining) and a task simplification strategy (enhancement of the simulated aircraft's response to throttle adjustments) were tested. In addition, the subjects' motor-skill aptitude was assessed. Training under backward chaining produced better transfer to the criterion task than an equal number of training trials on the criterion task itself. An aptitude-by-treatment interaction indicated that the backward chaining method of training was particularly advantageous for low-aptitude subjects. The simplification strategy did not appear to enhance transfer.
Information-Processing Approaches to the Study of Human-Computer Interaction
Authors: Robertson Scott P.
Published: January 2012

This symposium brings together several researchers studying different aspects of human-computer interaction. All of the researchers share the assumption that it is important to understand the cognitive processes involved in human-computer situations. Each presentation focuses on a unique aspect of the cognitive component of human-computer situations, however.

Human-computer interaction is a growing area that includes many human factors issues. Physical factors in human-computer situations are common across the range tasks for which computers are used and are similar to traditional ergonomic considerations in other contexts. When the focus is on human performance in a particular task, however, the important issues become the design of the software interface and the cognitive components involved in manipulating the interface and understanding the system behind it.

We hope that this set of talks will focus interest on “cognitive human factors” and provide insight into which components of the cognitive system are relevant to particular kinds of tasks and which methodologies might be appropriate in different research contexts. Thus, the tasks studied and methodologies discussed are diverse. Two studies focus on procedural skills (text editing and image processing). The researchers in these cases describe plans and strategies and rely on naturalistic observation and formal simulation to characterize the observed behavior. Another study focuses on database manipulation and utilizes a more traditional experimental methodology. The researcher describes the characteristics of different memory representations resulting from different database interfaces and shows the importance of “interface-representation compatability.” Yet another study concerns the task of software development. The researcher examines problem solving strategies and the interaction between development methodology and the programming problem to be solved. Finally, one presentation explicitly explores the use of a particular theoretical orientation and research tool, signal detection theory, in the general context of human-computer interaction.
Learning from Errors in Computer Text Editing
Authors: Robertson Scott P.
Published: January 2012

This presentation explores how people learn from mistakes that they make when learning a computer text editor. The development of complex procedural skills is characterized by the frequent appearance of errors. Learners gain information about the characteristics of a system as they make errors and plan how to recover from error states. This project examines the processes of error recognition, explanation, and recovery planning–and how these processes influence the development of plans for using an interactive system.
The Use of Signal Detection Theory in Research on Human-Computer Interaction
Authors: Parasuraman Raja , Wisdom Gayle
Published: January 2012

The use of signal detection theory (SDT) in evaluating attentional and decision-making performance in the context of human-computer interaction is reviewed. SDT provides a means for distinguishing between accuracy and criterion setting in decision-making environments. This is useful in evaluating the effectiveness of the decision-making performance of an intelligent machine, a human user, or a human-machine system. SDT is also useful in deciding how best to allocate subtasks and functions in human-computer monitoring systems. Applications of SDT to the evaluation of rule bases in expert systems and the design of computer assistance in human-computer monitoring are discussed.
A Measure of the Difficulty of Evacuating Elderly and Impaired Residents from Board and Care Homes
Authors: Groner Norman E. , Levin Bernard H.
Published: January 2012

As a result of a rapid increase in fire fatalities among residents in board and care homes, the National Bureau of Standards developed an Evacuation Difficulty Index for use in determining how much building fire protection should be required in individual board and care homes. The Index is a ratio, where the numerator is a sum of the assistance needs of residents, and the denominator is the availability of staff. The assistance needs of residents are rated on behaviorally-anchored scales that represent “risk factors.” The risk factors were identified by an expert panel's informal analysis of everyday assistance needs that must also be provided during fire emergencies, an approach adapted from research on synthetic job validation. The panel also helped determine scale values for risk factors. Three studies of inter-rater reliability led to further revisions, and the system was field tested in 151 facilities.
Assessing Subjective Workload Assessment: A Comparison of SWAT and the NASA-Bipolar Methods
Authors: Vidulich Michael A. , Tsang Pamela S.
Published: January 2012

Subjective assessments of workload are becoming increasingly important in the evaluation of new systems. Two popular methods were compared in the present investigation: (1) the Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT) which was developed around the use of conjoint analysis to create interval scales, and (2) a technique under development at NASA that utilizes an individually weighted workload score from a set of nine bipolar ratings. Both methods were applied in a laboratory experiment that required rating a number of single- and dual-task trials of tracking and/or a spatial transformation task. The dual transformation-tracking task results were reviewed. The results for the two assessment techniques were remarkably similar, indicating that the subjective experience of workload is sufficiently robust to be resistant to variations in the measuring technique. Also, both subjective assessment techniques were successful in measuring the differences in task difficulty as indicated by a multivariate analysis of performance. Finally, the specific strengths and weaknesses of each assessment technique were reviewed.
The Role of Human Factors in the Translation of Operating Instructions
Authors: Angiolillo-Bent Joel S.
Published: January 2012

In this paper I argue that a human factors specialist should supervise the translation of operating instructions. Pitfalls to avoid in translating text and a procedure (which I call the “Advocacy Method”) for generating reliable translations are presented.
A Selective Review of Navy Human Engineering Research and Development Programs
Authors: Fleming Robert A. , Baker Clifford C. , Benson William
Published: January 2012

While the technology of naval warfare continues to grow at an impressive rate, personnel limitations and resources are becoming a major impediment to maintaining fleet readiness. Technolgy and complexity of naval systems may outstrip human capabilities to operate and maintain them. This, in concert with dwindling manpower availability and increasing competition for manpower, becomes a major issue in achieving and maintaining a high level of naval readiness, now and in the future.

Current human factors engineering technology is often inadequate to remedy this growing divergence of technology and human capabilities. New human factors engineering technologies must be developed and applied to allow mutual man-system monitoring, decision making, and control. This paper summarizes a number of efforts underway within the Navy Personnel Research and Development Center to apply existing HFE technology and to provide some of the fundamental research required to develop new human engineering methods, techniques, and data.
Two Experiments Investigating the Effects of Control-Display Gain and Method of Cursor Control on Touch Tablet Performance
Authors: Arnaut Lynn Y. , Greenstein Joel S.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of control-display gain, method of cursor movement, and target resolution on target selection performance with a touch tablet. A relatively low gain of approximately 0.8 to 1.0 resulted in faster rates of target selection and fewer entries into the target prior to confirmation than did higher or lower gains. In addition, an absolute mode of cursor movement in which the cursor appears on the display in a position corresponding to the location of the finger on the touch tablet resulted in better performance than a relative cursor movement mode. Finally, large targets were selected more quickly and with less errors and target entries than were smaller targets.
Questionnaire Programs for Portable Computers
Authors: Drury Colin G.
Published: January 2012

Portable battery-powered computers have made it possible to collect questionnnaire data directly from the respondent into a data file. While individual questionnaires can be presented to respondents using a specially-written BASIC program for each questionnaire, a general questionnaire generation, editing and presentation package would be of more use. Such a package is described for the TRS-80 Model 100 portable computer. Three programs perform the three functions of generation, editing and presentation, with data files being generated to store all results. A simple example of the use of this package is described.
Human Factors in the Design of Technical Information: A Case Study
Authors: Smillie Robert J.
Published: January 2012

A human factors system perspective was used to identify problems that end users have with an existing technical manual and to develop a strategy for redesigning the technical information to eliminate the problems. The use of human factors methods and techniques allowed for the consideration of the variables that affect the end product, a usable technical manual. Elements in the design and development of technical manuals that were considered included the task analysis and source data, writing process, quality assurance, and customer verification. The approach used to document problems included (1) a human factors review of the existing technical manual to identify deficiencies and (2) the collection, collation, and evaluation of inputs from the end users to determine how technicians use the existing manual and what types of technical information are needed by the user. As a result of this approach, it was recommended that the technical manual be systematically redesigned to provide a concise set of documents that could be usable by both experienced and inexperienced users. Next, a set of guidelines, based on the recommendations, was put together to provide a user oriented product. The guidelines along with constant customer-developer interaction was then used by the developer to produce a book plan describing (1) the task analytical process that will be used to insure completeness of source data, (2) the writing procedures that will be used to generate the technical information and (3) the quality assurance procedures will be used to insure the accuracy and completeness of the technical information. The results are discussed in terms of how a human factors systems approach that focuses on the needs of the end user can be applied in the design and development of technical information.
Methods and Systems for Measuring Human Performance Capabilities
Authors: Shingledecker Clark A. , Crabtree Mark S. , Eggemeier F. Thomas
Published: January 2012

Human factors specialists require practical efficient data collection technologies which can be used to answer questions about the performance capabilities of the human operator. This paper considers several factors which contribute to the interpretability, sensitivity, and practical utility of standardized task batteries designed to assess the effects on human performance of work environments, stressors, biochemically active agents and performance enhancement interventions. The procedures employed in the development of a task battery by the U.S. Air Force Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory are used to illustrate both the theoretical and pragmatic issues which are discussed.
How Operating Systems are Used: A Comparison of VMS and UNIX
Authors: Wixon Dennis , Bramhall Mark
Published: January 2012

Command usage was recorded on a VMS system. The overall frequency of commands, the frequency of transitions between commands, the sources of commands, and the extent to which the overall results could be applied to individuals were analyzed. The frequency of top-level interactive commands was very similar to those found by others for a UNIX system. Transitions showed that commands fall into one of three classes: self-referential, interdependent and general. Issuing commands indirectly accounted for the vast majority of commands processed by the system. Results are discussed in terms of previous research and general implications for system design.
Strength Considerations for Product Safety Assessments
Authors: Boulette Margery Davidson
Published: January 2012

Strength is an important consideration for analyzing hazards associated with product-user interactions. It is important to be able to predict what the effect of specific amounts of strength exertion will be on the products being used. A product safety assessment might include determining how much grip, push or pull strength is required of children playing with certain toys or estimating the pull strength required for starting up a gas-powered lawn mower. The risk of injury associated with product use or misuse is impossible to predict without comprehensive and accurate strength data. This paper describes the limitations of existing strength data and discusses the application of strength models for product safety assessments.
The Role of Seating Types in Egress Difficulty Experienced by Older Adults: A Biomechanical Analysis
Authors: Clark M. Cherie , Faletti Martin V.
Published: January 2012

Videotape analysis of biomechanical movements involved in chair egress was used to assess the efficacy of the Warren Chair, a non-electromotive assistive chair. Persons experiencing chair egress difficulties were videotaped egressing both the Warren Chair and their own standard chair. Compared to standard chairs, Warren Chair egresses were easier, required less time, were more ergonomically efficient and provided more postural balance at the completion of the egress. The authors conclude that the Warren Chair provides a number of positive solutions for the problems experienced by persons in chair egress.
Toward Joint Person-Machine Cognitive Systems: A Prototype Expert System for Electronics Troubleshooting
Authors: Roth E. M. , Elias G. S. , Mauldin M. L. , Ramage W. W.
Published: January 2012

Expert systems have a number of attractive features that make them good candidates for the development of maintenance diagnostic aids. However the style of user-expert system interaction that is conventionally employed tends to be rigid, making the systems prone to many of the same pitfalls that other forms of job performance aids have been subject to. We review some of the limitations of the conventional style of user-expert system interaction, and describe a prototype expert system for electronics troubleshooting that allows users more control over the interaction.
Strategies for Improving Organizational Communication: Case Studies of Nuclear Power Plants Revisited
Authors: Bauman Marjorie B. , Boulette Margery Davidson , Van Cott Harold P.
Published: January 2012

This EPRI-sponsored study reviewed the organizational communications used by nuclear power plants (NPPs) and identified weak links in the chain of coordination and information processing required to effectively perform corrective and preventive maintenance in the plants. Preliminary survey results from four NPPs showed that many communication areas deserve special attention in order to improve the work request process and decrease the time delays involved in the performance of maintenance work. This study evaluates two alternative programs designed to improve the effectiveness of the work request process. One approach involves evaluating an automated work request system as a way of improving interdepartmental communication and job performance as they relate to the implementation of maintenance work requests. Another approach assesses the effectiveness of interdepartmental meetings for supervisors as a method for improving organizational communication. Results of this longitudinal study are reported. Pros and cons of each intervention strategy are also discussed.
Eye-Scan Behavior in a Flight Simulation Task as a Function of Level of Training
Authors: Comstock James R. , Coates Glynn D. , Kirby Raymond H.
Published: January 2012

The present study explored eye-scan behavior as a function of level of subject training. Oculometric (eye-scan) measures were recorded from each of ten subjects during training trials on a CRT-based flight simulation task. The task developed for the study incorporated subtasks representative of specific activities performed by pilots, but which could be performed at asymptotic levels within relatively short periods of training. Changes in eye-scan behavior were examined as initially untrained subjects developed skill in the task. Eye-scan predictors of performance on the task were found. Examination of eye-scan in proximity to selected task events revealed differences in the distribution of looks at the instruments as a function of level of training.
A Demonstration of Surface Warfare Advanced Training Technology
Authors: Reynolds Richard E. , Salas Eduardo
Published: January 2012

This interactive presentation consists of (1) a video tape demonstration of the Surface Warfare Advanced Training Technology (SWATT) research and demonstration training system and (2) this paper describing the system, its purpose, its human factors research areas, and information on the utility of the various training features incorporated in the system.
Shadow Mask Display Visibility: Human Thresholds for Perception of Misconvergence Effects
Authors: Hansen Oliver K.
Published: January 2012

A psychophysical study was conducted to identify the acceptable limits of misregistration of the color vector beams in a “delta gun” shadow mask display. The criteria for acceptability were the perceptual responses of sixteen male pilots who viewed the display and adjusted the beam convergence to achieve various visual effects. Results are discussed in terms of display image perception and engineering design standards.
Predictive Models of Isokinetic Upper Extremity Strength
Authors: Imrhan Sheik N. , Ayoub Mohamed M.
Published: January 2012

Predictive models of maximal isokinetic linear pull strength of the preferred arm were developed from predicted rotary elbow and shoulder maximal strength. Linear pull data were first analyzed to determine the final conditions under which the arm attained maximum pull strength. This yielded Parameters for designing experiments for investigating shoulder extension and elbow flexion strengths. Predictive models of these two rotary strengths were then developed and their values used as variables in other models for predicting linear pull strength. All strength measurements were based on maximal voluntary contractions (MVC). The models were developed from data from 7 subjects and validated from data from 3 subjects. The validation statistics suggested that the models were accurate.
Zonal Differentiation of Performance under Heat Stress
Authors: Hancock P.A. , Behnke A.A.
Published: January 2012

This paper details four discrete zones which describe the limit of human physiological and performance capabilities in conditions of elevated environmental temperature. Boundaries to these zones are expressed in both environmental and physiological parameters. The practical application of these zones may be realized where individuals are exposed to continuous or intermittent heat stress.
Preferred Declination of the Line of Sight
Authors: Hill Susan G. , Kroemer Karl H. E.
Published: January 2012

Thirty-two subjects participated in a study which measured the angle at which they preferred to look down at visual targets. Four different head positions, two visual tasks, and two target distances were used. The overall preferred mean angle in the midsagittal plane below the Frankfurt Plane was −34°. Head position and target distance had significant effects on preferred angle while the task did not influence it.
Automated Determination of Reach Envelopes
Authors: Stramler J. H.
Published: January 2012

Six subjects were tested with a modified Selspot system for tracking LEDs to determine their maximum and functional reach envelopes for each arm individually, both arms moving independently, and a palm-to-palm position for both arms. Results are given in terms of computer-generated graphics, volumes, and cartesian coordinates and graphics for specified levels within the envelope.
Patient Falls and Related Variables: An Examination of Environmental Design and Safety
Authors: Leighbody Glenn P. , Andrews Dorothy , Long Kathleen
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper was to examine, through the use of quantitative research and a comparative literature review, the incidence of patient falls, particularly among the elderly, within a healthcare facility. Patient incident reports revealed the presence of environmental and patient conditions which appeared related to the occurrence of such accidents. Among these were fall location, associated patient activity, equipment, patient environmental orientation, mental status and time of day. Design improvements in the following areas were suggested: door “hold-open” devices, floor surface, equipment mobility, footwear design, nursing supervision, patient mental and physical assessment, lighting, environmental markings, and doorway and furniture design.
The Effect of Alcohol on Contrast Sensitivity
Authors: Ginsburg Arthur P. , Evans David W. , Blauvelt Ken , McNinch Linda
Published: January 2012

Contrast sensitivity was measured for subjects having different levels of blood alcohol content (BAC) under photopic and mesopic luminance conditions. In general, alcohol intoxication of less than 0.1% resulted in contrast sensitivity changes at all spatial frequencies tested. Most gains in contrast sensitivity occured at the higher spatial frequencies and the higher luminance levels. Losses of contrast sensitivity were perceived at all spatial frequencies. There were significant differences in the patterns of sensitivity gains and losses for individuals. For some subjects, the highest intoxication levels produced the greatest change in contrast sensitivity, while others demonstrated a delayed change in contrast sensitivity. Recovery of contrast sensitivity also varied. While some subjects returned to baseline sensitivity as BAC decreased, the contrast sensitivity of others increased or remained suppressed even after BAC returned to initial levels. These alcohol produced contrast sensitivity losses are significant when compared to previous performance-based target acquisition research. Results of this study suggest that the person who drinks alcohol, even moderately, might experience some serious loss in visibility of certain objects, especially under low luminance conditions. These results have implications for the general interpretation of tests of alcohol intoxication in visual task performance, especially for night driving. Further research is required.
An Investigation of the “Von Restorff” Phenomenon in Post-Test Workload Ratings
Authors: Thornton D. Craig
Published: January 2012

The present experiment was designed to examine the possibility of a “von Restorff” effect occurring during post-task ratings of difficulty, effort and workload as a result of performing tasks containing an isolated period of high workload. The task employed was a hovercraft simulation which combined elements of skill-based tracking and rule- and knowledge-based process control. The performance of five separate tasks was compared. In the first, subjects performed missions which presented a relatively low level of workload from throughout while the second presented a high level of workload from throughout. The final three conditions were designed to produce isolated peaks in workload which occurred either early, midway or late in the mission. Results demonstrated that ratings on the three scales increased steadily as the peak approached the end of the mission. Further, the ratings for the early increase were only slightly greater than those reported for the task containing a low level of workload throughout. An analysis of error rates demonstrated that there was evidence for the dissociation of performance and workload which was especially apparent when the increase occurred at the beginning of the mission.
The Effect of Varying Task Difficulty on Subjective Workload
Authors: Yen Yei-Yu , Wickens Christopher D. , Hart Sandra G.
Published: January 2012

The goal of the present study was to determine whether or not retrospective workload ratings would reflect the average demands of the entire block of trials or whether one segment within the block would have more weight in determining the magnitudes of ratings than another. Performance data within a block of trials almost perfectly reflected the different task difficulty manipulations: reaction times (but not movement times) reflected variations in the difficulty of the more cognitive response selection component whereas movement times (but not reaction times) reflected variations in the difficulty of the response execution component. Subjective ratings consistently reflected the combined demands of both task components averaged across levels of difficulty even when their levels of difficulty were varied within the block of trials. In every case, it appeared that all of the trials within a block were given equal weight in the composite subjective evaluation. These results suggest that subjective workload is not a specific retrieval of experiences heeded in working memory. Rather, it may reflect the experiences of an ongoing integration process.
Human Factors Emphases Emerging from Product Liability Case Histories
Authors: Small Arnold M.
Published: January 2012

This session on Human Factors is planned as an interactive panel meeting, interactive for both the panel members and attendees.

The purpose is to demonstrate the spread taking place in the nature of Human Factors involved for forensic applications and in the type of accidents with which they are associated. For this purpose the procedure involved is the case history report. Panel members jointly will select cases to report which best serve this purpose and time will be scheduled for others in attendance to contribute likewise.
Automating Managerial Tasks: The Organizational Implications
Authors: MacDuffie John Paul
Published: January 2012

Information technology is making possible the automation of increasingly complex operations in the workplace. At the same time, the ability of the technology to embody knowledge in computer algorithms allows the automation of some tasks traditionally considered managerial. Case study research in the telecommunications, transport, and insurance industries suggests that the automation of such “managerial” tasks often leads to very different organizational consequences than the automation of “work tasks.” The paper defines the difference between “managerial” and “work” tasks, and demonstrates the value of these concepts in evaluating the effects of new technologies on organizational systems.
Artificial Intelligence — What does it Offer Combat Aircraft?
Authors: Ott Lawrence M.
Published: January 2012

As the threat becomes more sophisticated and weapon systems more complex to meet the threat, the need for machines to assist the pilot in the assessment of information becomes paramount. This paper discusses the role of artificial intelligence in meeting the above need including the required characteristics, on-going research, issues still to be resolved and areas of future work.
Graphically Comparing the Predictive Performance of Two Selection Models
Authors: Jensen Cary Robb
Published: January 2012

In this paper a method is demonstrated which allows for the comparison of the predictive performance of 2 preference ordering models. This method employs a 3-dimensional graph which is both informative and easy to interpret. This method is demonstrated with a Monte Carlo study designed to compare the predictive performance of a utility preference model using different weighting coefficient schemes.
Ergonography™: Computer Graphics to Show how People and Equipment Work Together
Authors: Brecht Mark , Curtis Paula , Giacomi Jean , Holly John
Published: January 2012

Ergonographyl™ is a computer graphics tool for visualizing cooperative work involving people and equipment. Icons of people and equipment are arranged on time charts and space charts. The time charts show the sequence of tasks that produces results. The space charts show workspace arrangement and communications links. Ergonography charts can be used for design, decisionmaking, planning, sales, and training. Their pictorial nature solidifies abstract concepts and words. The charts communicate such concepts better than traditional flow diagrams that consist of only boxes and words.
Event-Related Brain Potentials and Resource Allocation: From Dual-Task Decrements to Dual-Task Integrality
Authors: Kramer Arthur F. , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: January 2012

The use of event-related brain potentials (ERP) in the study of mental workload and resource allocation is discussed. A series of studies are reviewed which, taken together, suggest that the P300 component of the ERP provides a reliable measure of the perceptual/central processing demands of a task. Furthermore, the use of P300 in the assessment of mental workload offers the advantage of not requiring an overt response, thereby eliminating the possibility of secondary task intrusion into primary task performance. The concept of dual-task integrality is introduced and the resource demands of integral task pairs are inferred from measures of P300 amplitude. The findings are discussed in terms of resource models of mental workload.
Development of Lifting Capacity Norms Based on Fuzzy Measures of Stress
Authors: Karwowski Waldemar , Mital Anil
Published: January 2012

A concept of an individual lifting capacity norm (ILCN) is proposed based on the combined measure of acceptability of the biomechanical and physiological stress responses to a lifting task. A numerical example is also provided to illustrate the outlined approach.