bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the Usability and Effectiveness of Online Learning: How Can Avatars help?
Authors: Wang Hua , Chignell Mark , Ishizuka Mitsuru
Published: January 2012

This paper describes Empathic Tutoring System (ETS) which uses character agents for online learning. Eye movement tracking and other physiological measures are used to personalize character agent behaviors (affective and instruction) in an e-learning environment. A prototype system reacts to learner's eye information in real-time, recording eye gaze and pupil dilation data (plus heart rate and skin conductance) during learning. Based on these measures, character agents inferred the attentional and motivational status of the learner and responded accordingly with affective and instructional behaviors. Character agents engage and direct the learner's attention while providing both generalized system help and personalized advice about the learning content. Feedbacks from preliminary usability studies may suggest that e-learning character agents reacting to eye gaze and physiological measures may heighten l earner concentration and lead to more effective learning.
Placement Opportunities for Human Factors Engineering and Ergonomics Professionals in Industry and Government/Military Positions
Authors: Anderson Taylor J. , Bakowski Deborah L. , Moroney William F.
Published: January 2012

During the period from January 2004 through December 2004, the Placement Service of Human Factors and Ergonomics Society distributed announcements describing 115 new positions available for human factors and ergonomics professionals. This paper describes the 92 placement opportunities in Industry and the Government/Military. The attributes of the position descriptions examined include: employment sector, degree requirements, work experience, expertise, salary, and geographic location.

The type of industry seeking most employees was Consumer Products at 16%. The degree required was usually a Masters (43.5%) and the geographic area with the most jobs was the Northeast (N=15). The area of expertise most frequently requested by employers was Human Computer Interaction (N=50). Human Factors/Ergonomics (N=22) was the most commonly specified job expertise.

During the period from October 25, 2004 through December 25, 2004, forty-three announcements for new positions were listed on HFCareers.com . Findings are discussed separately for the HFES Placement Service and HFCareers.
Functional Characteristics of Users in Tasks Associated with Grocery Retail Checkout: A Literature Review
Authors: Ringholz David A.
Published: January 2012

The intent of this literature review is to examine existing research on functional characteristics and limitations of individuals engaged in tasks associated with grocery retail checkout. The resulting data will be used to generate performance criteria to guide the development of grocery retail checkstands and facilitate comparisons between highly varied populations. Target populations for this study are wheelchair users, standing users, elderly individuals and women who are pregnant. Comparing the characteristics of these individuals can contribute to understanding of key user requirements for this and related tasks in addition to providing a context for future research in the area of retail workstation optimization through the application of universal design principles.
Consumer Beliefs toward the Protection Offered by Motorcycle Helmets: The Effects of Certification, Price, and Crash Speed
Authors: Vigilante William J.
Published: January 2012

This study examined consumer beliefs towards the level of protection offered by motorcycle helmets varying in price ($35, $60, $120, $240); level of certification (none, DOT, SNELL, both DOT and Snell); and at high versus low speed lay-down type crashes. Fifty-eight motorcycle riders and passengers were surveyed. The results indicated that consumers believe the level of protection offered by motorcycle helmets is dependent upon certification level more than price; and the expected severity of injury during a crash has little or no relationship to the helmet's certification or price. The implications of these findings include: motorcycle helmets with the same certification should provide the same level of protection regardless of price, or different levels of certification should be provided that represent the actual level of protection offered by the helmet. Finally, consumers should be provided with more education on the actual level of protection they can expect from a helmet based on its certification.
Consequences of Poor Workplace Layout and Ambient Conditions: Case Study of an Industrial Injury
Authors: Cohen H. Harvey , LaRue Cindy A.
Published: January 2012

Our firm was retained to consult on a lawsuit involving an injury sustained by an employee of a food processing plant. While performing an assigned, yet unfamiliar task, the employee unintentionally stepped into an uncovered sump well containing water in excess of 140° (60°), seriously burning one leg. The sump well had been uncovered for routine maintenance by another employee who neglected to put the lid on the well when he had completed his task. This case went to litigation with the plumbing contractor, general contractor and boiler company as defendants. This paper will provide a human factors/ergonomics analysis of the incident, describing the facility design and maintenance issues, as well as the human and system errors that led to the injury. Also discussed are recommendations based on human factors principles that would have decreased the likelihood of the incident occurring.
Why and How HFE Professionals can Better use Theory (Metatheory Included; Some Assembly Required)
Authors: Koltko-Rivera Mark E. , Hancock Peter A.
Published: January 2012

The relationship between theory and discipline is problematic for human factors and ergonomics (HFE). We address the following constituent issues: (a) the present state of theory usage in HFE; (b) the reasons underlying this state; (c) the need for theory in HFE; (d) what HFE professionals (including educators, journal editors, and individual researchers) should do to encourage the proper use of theory; and, (e) the outlines of a metatheory of HFE. A metatheory is a general framework that may help professionals to construct more useful specific theories. Our metatheory of HFE involves five basic units, or classes of variables: task, environment, personnel, tool, and performance. Each unit in turn has multiple components (i.e., specific variables). Use of the metatheory is illustrated with specific examples. Our hope is that researchers will be motivated to make explicit and useful connections between their research and necessary theory, to the improvement of both; the metatheory may be useful in this endeavor.
Two Dimensional Finite Element Modeling to Identify Physiological Bases for Tactile Gap Discrimination
Authors: Gerling Gregory J. , Thomas Geb W.
Published: January 2012

Tactile edge and gap detection are fundamental to performing manual tasks. Because slowly adapting type I (SA-I) mechanoreceptors encode details pertinent to edge localization, understanding low-level encoding is critical to understanding edge perception. Solid mechanics models may help us understand how mechanoreceptors in the skin encode applied surface indentation into neural signals representing edges. Finite element models test whether an indenter separated by a gap creates unique stress/strain distributions in models based upon orientation to fingerprint lines. Results indicate that a gap axis parallel to ridge lines elicits a more pronounced signal than a gap axis perpendicular to ridge lines. The differences may be due to underlying intermediate ridge microstructure. The percentage differences for three derived stress metrics range from 30-87% greater when the indenter's gap axis parallels the ridges. This initial effort demonstrates that underlying skin microstructure may aid tactile perception of stimulus orientation.
Variations in Perceived Emotional Intensity by Levels of Anthropomorphism in 3D Modeling
Authors: Fincannon Thomas D. , Smoker Tim , Pate Michael
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine various levels of anthropomorphism on perceived intensities of emotion with 3D computer images. Previous research has indicated that less attention to detail in virtual environments and lower levels of anthropomorphism in images result in greater levels of presence and social presence respectively. Images were designed to be happy, sad, or neutral in both high and low anthropomorphic conditions. Participants observed the images and rated the intensity of the expressed emotion on a 7-point Likert Scale. The intensity of expressed emotion for happy and sad conditions was averaged for each participant. Using this average, the low anthropomorphic condition reported significantly greater intensities of emotion than the high anthropomorphic condition. There were no significant differences between high and low anthropomorphic conditions of the neutral face.
Human Factors in Homeland Security: Symposium Overview
Authors: Thurman David A. , Sanquist Thomas F.
Published: January 2012

Building on the “Cognitive Factors in Intelligence Analysis” symposiums held at HFES in 2003 and 2004, this symposium focuses on a range of human factors issues across the homeland security domain. Papers in this session come from human factors practitioners engaged specifically human factors research in the homeland security arena, including intelligence analysis, personnel selection, inspection and screening, and public perception of the risk/privacy tradeoff.
Factors Contributing to Airport Screener Expertise
Authors: McCallum Marvin , Bittner Alvah , Rubinstein Joshua , Brown James , Richman Joel , Taylor Randal
Published: January 2012

An airport X-ray Screener Test Battery was developed to better understand how selected aspects of screeners' visual and perceptual capabilities, attentional and verbal processing, work schedule, medication use, work history, training, equipment knowledge, personal style, attitudinal characteristics, and job satisfaction are related to job performance. The Test Battery was administered to 92 X-ray screeners and analyses compared Test Battery performance with X-ray screening job performance. Analyses suggest that important factors related to X-ray screening performance include several aspects of perceptual and attentional processing; screeners' time on the job; screeners' work schedules; and their use of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements. Potential applications of the findings for improving screener performance through personnel selection, training, workforce management, and X-ray equipment design enhancements are discussed. Ongoing research is also outlined.
An Investigation of Medical Decision Making BIAS Using Patient Penal Status
Authors: Timothee Stephane , Resnick Marc L
Published: January 2012

When providing medical care, doctors are constantly required to make complex decisions based on a wide variety of information sources. As the US health care system becomes more complex with managed care, new regulations for prescription drugs, and other factors, it will become easier for bias to be introduced into the decision making process. This study investigates medical treatment decisions and seeks to identify paths through which bias can be introduced. Patient penal status was used as a proxy for patient variables that in theory should not affect care decisions but in practice often do. The results of the study show that penal patients are less likely to receive required and recommended treatments and that these differences are not due to differences in race, age, or gender of the prisoner population. Additional research is needed to identify the organizational or contextual factors that lead to differences in the provision of medical care.
Technology Characteristics Predicting End User Acceptance of Smart Intravenous Infusion Pumps
Authors: Wetterneck Tosha B. , Carayon Pascale , Sobande Folasade , Hundt Ann Schoofs
Published: January 2012

Technology acceptance is an important predictor of end user technology usage. Perceptions of technology characteristics relating to usability and technical performance are particularly important to understanding user acceptance. This paper reports on the implementation of Smart intravenous infusion pumps at a tertiary care hospital. Nurse user perceptions of the technology usability (five dimensions), technical performance, and acceptance were measured one month after implementation. Overall, 42% of nurses responded positively towards accepting the pump. For 21 of 23 usability characteristics and performance questions, nurses were more likely to report neutral perceptions than positive or negative perceptions. The highest positive perceptions were for ease of learning to operate the pump and reliability of the pump. Six characteristics predicted end-user acceptance. Perceptions that the IV pump enhanced job effectiveness, made the job easier, increased safety of care, and functioned as expected predicted higher acceptance, while perceptions that alarm messages were frustrating and the pump interface was rigid predicted lower acceptance. Therefore, a new finding provided in this study is that highlighting improved patient safety when hospitals implement Smart intravenous infusion pumps may improve user acceptance of the pump.
Human Factors Meets Anesthesia: Advanced Training to Improve Airway Management
Authors: Drews Frank A. , Johnson Ken , Syroid Noah , Strayer David L.
Published: January 2012

Enhanced training techniques have been successfully employed to improve performance in domains that require efficient multi-tasking skills. Some of these techniques include part task training (PTT) and variable priority training (VPT). PTT focuses on dividing complex tasks into small components followed by intensive concentrated training on each individual component. VPT focuses on optimal distribution of attention when performing multiple tasks simultaneously. The present study used VPT and PTT to train a group of first year anesthesia residents on airway management and compared performance of this group with a group of first year residents who participated in the standard curriculum. Preliminary results indicate that the group that received PTT and VPT is more successful in managing airway problems.
Studying and Supporting Collaborative Care Processes
Authors: Dominguez Cynthia , Uhlig Paul , Brown Jeff , Group Systems Safety , Gurevich Olga , Shumar Wes , Stahl Gerry , Zemel Alan , Zipperer Lorri
Published: January 2012

In patient care today, teams of practitioners from various disciplines must coordinate their efforts in order to deliver care successfully. Frontline nurses and physicians must interact with social workers, therapists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and others to develop and carry out coordinated plans of care. Also, clinical team members must communicate with patients and their families in language that can be understood and acted upon. In support of these goals, JCAHO standards require patient care to be planned and provided in an interdisciplinary, collaborative manner. As hospital units develop processes for collaborative care in complex environments such as post-surgery and critical care units, it is important to understand what constitutes success for these processes and how they can be enabled and supported. This report documents a series of field visits and simulations designed to observe, videotape, and interview collaborative care team members, patients, and family members engaged in varying forms of collaborative practice. This ongoing research is being conducted by a multi-disciplinary team of medical and social scientists with a shared goal of studying and supporting collaborative care processes.
Minimizing Movement Time in Surgical Telerobotic Tasks
Authors: Ellis R. Darin , Cao Alex , Pandya Abhilash , Composto Anthony , Klein Michael D. , Auner Greg
Published: January 2012

Surgical robotic devices are rapidly achieving widespread use and acceptance. Despite the many benefits of robotic-assisted surgery, it is typical for robot-assisted procedures to take longer. This study investigates the effect of control:response ratio on simple movement time in surgical telerobotic tasks. Robot control interfaces offer “motion scaling”settings but, in practice, this feature is often not used effectively, and is confounded by factors such as the fulcrum point of the laparoscopic instrument. Results using a simple aimed movement task indicate that control:response ratio indeed has a large effect on movement time, and further that it interacts with task difficulty. These results can guide medical device designers and the developers of surgical training protocols.
There is More to Error in Healthcare than the Care Provider
Authors: Bogner Marilyn Sue
Published: January 2012

Typically when an error occurs in healthcare, the care provider is considered the cause. Because that person committed the act that lead to the adverse outcome efforts to address the error are directed to that person. Indeed, human factors practitioners have developed remedial training and their medical device design activities have emphasized user interface design. This paper presents the case for expanding that focus based on the realization that the act of committing an error is a behavior and behavior reflects the interaction of the person and factors in the environment. The counterintuitive findings that more errors occur in prescribing medications with computer order entry than with handwritten script are discussed in terms of this approach.
Transition from an Open Bay to a Private Room Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Design — A Human Factors Evaluation
Authors: Smith Thomas J. , Clayton Sandra , Schoenbeck Kathleen
Published: January 2012

This report summarizes findings from a human factors evaluation of a change in the design of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) from an open bay (OBNICU) to a private room (PRNICU) patient care environment. The objective was to compare and contrast effects of this design change on the perceptions and performance of NICU patient care staff. Results indicate that, relative to work on the OBNICU, staff perceived that work on the PRNICU resulted in notable improvements in the quality of physical environmental conditions, their jobs, patient care and patient safety, interaction with parents of NICU patients, interaction with patient care technology and their life off-the-job. In contrast, staff perceived that the quality of interaction among different members of the NICU patient care team worsened substantially after the move to the PRNICU. The latter finding prompted the recommendation that a virtual open bay environment be implemented in the PRNICU.
Eye Movements in Human Performance Modeling of Space Shuttle Operations
Authors: Matessa Michael , Remington Roger
Published: January 2012

The goal of our research is to easily develop models that predict astronaut performance in space shuttle operations, but it is difficult to make extrapolations from astronaut training data. A solution is to decompose a complex task into a set of basic operators which are sequenced to create longer chains of behavior. In this modeling project, gaze durations and sequences are predicted and compared to the performance of novice (trained pilots) and expert (astronaut) space shuttle operators. The model makes generally good zero-parameter predictions of gaze durations, but there are notable discrepancies. The gaze sequence of the model is more similar to expert performance than novice performance, but there are differences from both. It appears that with more training, experts develop different gaze sequence strategies than novices due to familiarity with fault messages and procedures. Future modeling efforts should have their gaze sequence strategies based on expert performance.
Psychologically Plausible Cognitive Models for Simulating Interactive Human Behaviors
Authors: Bernard Michael L. , Xavier Patrick , Wolfenbarger Paul , Hart Derek , Waymire Russel , Glickman Matthew , Gardner Mark
Published: January 2012

The intent of Sandia National Laboratories' Human Interactions (HI) project is to demonstrate initial virtual human interaction modeling capability. To accomplish this, we have begun the process of simulating human behavior in a manner that produces life-like characteristics and movement, as well as creating the framework for models that are based on the most current experimental research in cognition, perception, physiology, and cognitive modeling. Currently the simulated human models can sense each other, react to each other, and move about in a simulated 3D environment. A preliminary action generation or motor-level cognition model, which transforms abstract actions generated by high-level cognition to actions that can be carried out by a simulated physical human model, has also been developed. Our work has yielded models of perceptual, spatial, and motor functioning and memory that will be embedded in upgrades to the cognitive framework.
Investigating Individual Differences and Instructional Efficiency in Computer-Based Training Environments
Authors: Scielzo Sandro , Fiore Stephen M. , Cuevas Haydee M.
Published: January 2012

This study assessed the extent to which a guided learner-generated questioning strategy could facilitate the acquisition of task-relevant knowledge and improve the instructional efficiency of a computer-based training program for a complex dynamic distributed decision-making task. This study also investigated how individual differences in verbal comprehension ability may interact with this instructional strategy to impact post-training outcomes. Overall, results highlighted the importance of learner aptitudes in complex task training and also showed that the effect of the instructional strategy on knowledge acquisition and the training programa” instructional efficiency was strongest for learners with low verbal comprehension ability. Implications for the design of adaptive learning systems are discussed
The Effects of Individual Differences in Working Memory on Multimedia Learning
Authors: Batka Jennifer A. , Peterson Scott A.
Published: January 2012

With the advance of instructional technologies, multimedia presentation formats have become increasingly common in business, military, and educational pursuits. Previous research has found that the use of certain multimedia design principles may alleviate demands on working memory and thus improve the learning process (Mayer, 2001). Our study examined the utility of three of these principles: the contiguity, redundancy and modality principles (Mayer & Moreno, 2003), in the design of a multimedia presentation explaining the formation of hail. Results indicated that use of the contiguity, redundancy, and modality principles tended to increase learning outcomes for individuals with low working memory capacities but decrease learning outcomes for those with higher working memory capacities. These findings call into question the generality of these design principles, and suggest that multimedia designers should carefully consider the effects of individual differences in the human learner
Cumulative Effects of Load Frequency and Velocity on the Lumbar Spine Response during a Repetitive Lifting Task
Authors: Campbell-Kyureghyan Naira H. , Marras William S.
Published: January 2012

Work—related low back disorders arise from a complex interaction of events. One aspect of interest is cyclic or repetitive tasks, which are performed on a daily basis in a variety of situations, and often for extended periods of time. The specific questions to be addressed in this study are the effects of the load frequency and time-dependent material properties on the lumbar spine component behavior. The newly developed and validated, subject specific, finite element model of lumbar spine is used in conjunction with kinematic data imported from human subjects experimental testing of repetitive sagittally-symmetric lifting and lowering tasks. Creep and energy dissipation in the lumbar spine components are used to quantify the effect of lifting frequency and velocity on the potential for injury over an eight-hour workday.
The Effects of Fatigue from Repeated Trunk Extensions on Trunk Muscle Activity
Authors: Kelaher Dan , Mirka Gary , Sommerich Carolyn
Published: January 2012

Asymmetric trunk postures and trunk dynamics have been implicated as risk factors for occupational low back disorders. Muscle fatigue has also been cited as an ergonomic issue, though not directly linked to an increased risk of low back injury. This paper investigates the effect of trunk extensor muscle fatigue on muscle activity levels during symmetric and asymmetric trunk extension exertions. The results show that muscle fatigue alters both flexor and extensor muscle activity patterns in asymmetric trunk extensions earlier than in sagittally-symmetric trunk extensions. This quickened fatigue response to asymmetric trunk motions could be a contributor to the increased risk of low back injury seen in occupational tasks that include asymmetric trunk lifting.
Evaluation of Microsoft's Comfort Curve Keyboard
Authors: McLoone Hugh , Hegg Chau , Johnson Peter W.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there were any postural, performance or perceived comfort differences between a conventional straight keyboard and a new ergonomic concept keyboard developed by Microsoft called the Comfort Curve. The concept keyboard was designed to promote more neutral postures in the wrist using a built-in, padded wrist rest to reduce wrist extension and curved keys in alphanumeric section of the keyboard to reduce ulnar deviation. Using a repeated measures design, 26 typists from various occupations randomly used each keyboard for a period of 15 minutes. Wrist postures were measured using electrogoniometers, typing speed and accuracy was measured using typing performance software and discomfort was subjectively measured in the hands, forearms and shoulders and neck. Compared to the conventional straight keyboard, the Comfort Curve keyboard reduced ulnar deviation by 2.2 ° (p < 0.01) and wrist extension by 6.5 ° (p <0.01). There was a small differences in typing speed (50.6 vs 51.8 WPM; p = 0.03) but no differences in accuracy (93.1% vs. 93.5%, p = 0.29) between the Comfort Curve and standard keyboards respectively. Subjective discomfort ratings in all measured body locations were lower with the Comfort Curve keyboard. The results indicate that the concept keyboard achieved its design goal of reducing wrist extension, ulnar deviation and discomfort while not compromising typing speed and accuracy.
Electromyographic Evaluation of a New Approach to Descending Stairs While Carrying a Stretcher
Authors: Lavender Steven A. , Conrad Karen M. , Reichelt Paul , Kohok Aniruddha , Gacki-Smith Jessica
Published: January 2012

One of the frequently encountered strenuous tasks performed by firefighter/paramedics (FFPs) is carrying a victim down the stairs on a stretcher. This study was designed to biomechanically evaluate new equipment that allows the stretcher to essentially be rolled down the stairs. The device called the Decent Control System looks like a pair of “tank treads” with a friction brake that span multiple steps was developed for this purpose (figure 1). We recruited 11 two-person teams of professional firefighters to test this approach. Electromyographic (EMG) data were obtained from each person as they carried and rolled the stretcher down a flight of stairs. Of the 8 muscles sampled from each firefighter, 4 muscles, including the left and right Erector Spinae showed significant reductions with the new approach. On average the 90th percentile normalized activity level for the Leader's (the FFP descending the stairs backwards) Erector Spinae decreased by 27% while the follower decreased 37%. The mean activity levels across the sampling period for these same muscle groups mounted on the stretcher shown also decreased by a similar amount. In summary the Decent Control System reduced the activity in two of the primary low back muscles used when lifting. Such reductions, if experienced in the field, lessen the biomechanical loads transmitted to the spine and the potential for muscle over-exertion injuries.
Implementation of Ergonomic Interventions in Healthcare: Results from 111 Facilities
Authors: Hamrick Christopher A. , Fujishiro Kaori , Weaver Jean , Marras William S. , Heaney Catherine A.
Published: January 2012

Work-related injuries in healthcare facilities are highly prevalent. This study examines the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions in 111 healthcare facilities on reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Data from OSHA logs were collected prior to (baseline) and after implementing (follow-up) engineering controls. The average length of the baseline period was 445 days, and the average length of follow-up was 629 days. Overall, 83 work units (64%) experienced a decrease in the MSD rates during the follow-up period (z = −5.193, p< .001). The median rate ratio for all interventions was .63; that is, the intervention is associated with overall 37% decrease in MSD rates. The decrease in back injury rates observed in the study (44%) was much higher than the decline in the national data (17%). This study demonstrates that ergonomic interventions in healthcare facilities can result in decreased MSD rates.
Exposure Assessment of Musculoskeletal Disorder Risk Factors in Hospital Work: Inter-Rater Reliability of Path Observations
Authors: Park Jungkeun , Boyer Jon , Tessler Jamie , Perez Gustavo , Punnett Laura
Published: January 2012

We examined the inter-rater reliability (IRR) of expert observations of ergonomic risk factors by four analysts. Ten jobs were observed at a hospital using a revision of the PATH method (Buchholz 1996). Two of four raters simultaneously observed each worker onsite. A total of 18 categorical exposure items were available for analysis. For most of the items, kappa coefficients were 0.4 or higher, showing that the IRR of the revised method was good. As predicted, agreement among observers was higher for the jobs with less rapid hand activity and for the analysts with more ergonomics and job analysis experience. The results show that the revised method can be reliably applicable to hospital work, and suggest that it can reasonably assess ergonomic exposure in any type of non-routine job across industries including healthcare industry.
Effect of User Experience on Powered Nutrunner Torque Reactions
Authors: Lin Jia-Hua , McGorry Raymond W. , Chang Chien-Chi , Dempsey Patrick G.
Published: January 2012

Powered tools are widely used in industries and they produce reaction forces that may be associated with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders. The handle displacement, grip force, and upper limb EMG during impulsive torque reactions due to the effect of operator experience was examined in the study with 15 experienced and 15 novice tool users. The results show that experienced users allowed an average of 7.9° of handle displacement, while novice users allowed 11.5° when pistol grip tools were used on a horizontal surface. Experienced users exerted more grip force than novice users when using right angle tools, but less when using pistol grip tools. Average EMG magnitudes at flexors, extensors, and biceps were greater for experienced users. Recommendations regarding tool selection and workstation design can be derived from the results to minimize physical exposure for both user groups during power tool usage.
Integrating Decision Support Systems and Ergonomics: A Case Study of Software Designed for Evaluating and Controlling Ergonomic Stresses
Authors: Womack Sarah K. , Armstrong Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

The study examines the use of a computerized decision support system developed for evaluating and controlling ergonomic stresses in an automobile assembly plant. The decision support system is based on a database of job videos, standardized work information, upper-extremity physical stress ratings for over 400 jobs, and historical job data that could be used in the job evaluation and improvement process. The study showed the software was useful to the extent that it had a user-friendly design, provided a significant amount of job information in one centralized location, and facilitated a more detailed analysis during injury investigation.
Can Experience Overcome Prior Knowledge'S Impact on Web Navigation?
Authors: Jones Keith S. , Farris J. Shawn , Johnson Brian R.
Published: January 2012

Farris (2003) discovered that users had greater difficulty finding information on a Web site when their prior knowledge was inconsistent with the site's content, relative to when their knowledge was consistent with it. In addition, he found that this difficulty was persistent over trials. To explain this persistence, Farris offered a schema-based account, which instantiated inconsistency in a single manner. The present study tested a prediction that was derived from Farris' account. The results associated with navigation efficiency supported Farris' account. The results associated with the choices made by participants as they navigated the site, however, contradicted his explanation. A new account, based on production-rules rather than schemata, is offered that accounts for both sets of results because it instantiates inconsistency in more than one manner. This new account has implications for the design and redesign of Web sites.
Handbooks or Mentors? the Role of a Resident Physician Manual in Resident Education
Authors: Ho Danny , Xiao Yan , Seagull F. Jacob , Sisley Amy , Dutton Richard , Mackenzie Colin F.
Published: January 2012

Teaching hospitals with rotating residents face the challenge of training and orienting new personnel. We studied a pocket-sized resident manual used for meeting these challenges in a leading trauma center. This study examines motivations and barriers associated with adopting the resident manual through structured survey and semi-formal interview. Multiple factors shaped the use and effectiveness of the manual, including learning style, organizational culture, and specific usability issues. Findings suggest that organizational culture was the primary determinant of how the resident manual was used, as residents strongly favor attending physicians, fellows, and other residents as their first source of knowledge. Meanwhile, the small form factor of the resident manual afforded optimal accessibility as a quick reference source, but findings suggest enhanced searchability is necessary to realize the manual's full potential. Recommendations for future implementation strategies are made.
Initial Development of the Employee Perception of Participatory Ergonomics Questionnaire
Authors: Matthews Russell A. , Gallus Jessica A.
Published: January 2012

In an organizational context, Participatory ergonomics (PE) programs set out to involve employees in ergonomic design and analysis efforts in order to promote a safer, more user-friendly, and productive workplace. While the purpose of a PE program is to involve employees, currently there is no quantitative method to evaluate the effectiveness of PE programs from the employee's perspective. The current study set out to address this void. Based on a review of the recent published literature, five key constructs were identified as critical evaluative components: Employee Knowledge Base, Employee Involvement, Employee Support, Perceptions of Managerial Support, and Employee Stress due to Ergonomic Changes. With the help of an organizational management-labor committee, a content validity approach was used to generate items. The proposed five-dimension measure was administered to 63 participants working in large manufacturing plant with an established PE program. Initial empirical support for the proposed dimensions was found. Potential uses of the developed measure in a larger context are discussed.
Combating Cry Wolf: The Effects of Synthetic Verbal Alarm Urgency on Choice Reaction Performance
Authors: Fallon Corey K. , Bustamante Ernesto A. , Bliss James P. , Anderson Brittany L.
Published: January 2012

Researchers have shown that increasing the perceived urgency of nonverbal auditory alarms can meliorate alarm response performance degradation due to the cry wolf effect. We conducted two experiments to examine the effects of verbal alarm urgency on the cry wolf effect. Experiment 1 revealed that participants responded significantly less often and correctly rejected more urgent alarms. Experiment 2 revealed that the results in Experiment 1 were contingent on the presence of additional task critical information. Response degradation due to the cry wolf effect was not moderated by alarm urgency in either study. However, the results suggest that performance may still benefit from increased alarm urgency provided additional task critical information is available. These results can be utilized to design verbal alarm systems that evoke more appropriate reactions to false alarms.
Concurrent Monitoring for Multiple Critical Signals in a Complex Display: A Vigilance Perspective
Authors: Bailey Nathan R. , Scerbo Mark W.
Published: January 2012

The present study was designed to examine the monitoring performance of operators in a complex environment requiring concurrent monitoring of multiple displays with different types of critical signals. Participants performed a manual flight task concurrently with three monitoring tasks over three separate 2-hour sessions. The monitoring tasks required operators to detect deviations in the gauge, mode, and digital readout portions of a simulated EICAS display. Results indicated that while performance on the primary flight task degraded within each session, monitoring performance remained constant. Further, intrasession monitoring performance did not degrade across trials. These findings suggest that vigilance performance for complex displays may be influenced by a number of factors including compensatory strategies related to mental effort regulation, the complexity of monitoring task demands, the duration of the monitoring session, and the nature of additional operator responsibilities.
Visual Displays of Route Properties in Route Guidance Systems: Effects on Driving Performance and Route Selection
Authors: Lavie Talia , Meyer Joachim , Bengler Klaus-Josef , Coughlin Joseph F.
Published: January 2012

Route guidance systems are predominant examples for in-vehicle telematic systems. The format in which the information is presented in these systems determines the ease of interacting with the system and may influence driving performance. An experiment compared the effects of a table, a separable bar graph and an integrated object display on the time required for route selection, driving performance and subjective evaluations of route guidance information. The integrated display was superior in performance times and participants' preferences and led to the least lane deviations in a driving simulator study. The tabular display led to the most accurate performance. The study provides information on issues related to information display in telematic systems and on the effects the display and system use may have on driving performance. These issues need to be taken into account when designing next generation telematic systems.
On Redundancy in the Design of Spatial instruments
Authors: Ellis Stephen R.
Published: January 2012

Alternative formats for information displays are sometimes identified as being best suited for presentation of particular types of information. This view is assessed in terms of the role of noise and distortion in the presentation of spatial information. It is shown that introduction of redundant elements may compensate for weaknesses in different formats. Consequently, it is argued that the observed differences among formats may in fact arise from specific design decisions relating to the redundancy in the presented information rather than features inherent to the formats themselves.
Conceptual versus Perceptual Training for Auditory Graphs
Authors: Walker Bruce N. , Nees Michael A.
Published: January 2012

A study examined different types of brief training for performance of a point estimation task with a sonified graph of quantitative data. For a given trial, participants estimated the price of a stock at a randomly selected hour of a 10-hour trading day as displayed by an auditory graph of the stock price. Sixty Georgia Tech undergraduate students completed a pre-test, an experimental training session, and a post-test for the point estimation task. In an extension of Smith and Walker (in press), a highly conceptual, task analysisderived method of training was examined along with training paradigms that used either practice alone, prompting of correct responses, or feedback for correct answers during the training session. A control group completed a filler task during training. Results indicated that practice with feedback during training produced better post-test scores than the control condition
The Role of Hedonomics in the Future of Industry, Service, and Product Design: Panel Overview
Authors: Oron-Gilad Tal , Hancock P.A.
Published: January 2012

Hedonomics has been defined as “ the branch of science which facilitates the pleasant or enjoyable aspects of human-technology interaction.” Hedonomics in general is a fairly new area in research and it is evidently new in ergonomics, human factors, usability and human-computer interaction (HCI). During the last ten years there has been a rapid growth in research about affect and pleasure. Considering the lack of interest from the psychological community during much of the 1900's this comes as a surprise. Affective evaluations provide a new and different perspective in Human Factors Engineering. It is not how to evaluate users — it is how the user evaluates. The research on hedonic values and seductive interfaces is in fact a welcome contrast to issues of safety and productivity, which have dominated human factors and ergonomics (HF/E). In order for industry to adopt these user-evaluating principles (as opposed to user-evaluation principles) it has to be convinced of their practical effectiveness in the workplace. This panel will focus on this issue and the role of Hedonomics in future work environments and products.
A Human Factors Field Evaluation of a Handheld GPS for Dismounted Soldiers
Authors: Savage-Knepshield Pamela A. , Martin John H.
Published: January 2012

Land navigation is a vital skill for dismounted Soldiers. Global Positioning System (GPS) technology provides the potential to enhance Soldier survivability by allowing Soldiers to precisely identify their location, track friendly troops, plot and share information about enemies, and exploit terrain characteristics when coupled with a topographical map. To evaluate the effectiveness of an improved handheld military GPS receiver, 16 Soldiers participated in a scenario-based usability study during which performance and preference data were collected. Overall, response to the receiver was favorable. However, the study revealed a Soldier-machine interaction that could result in catastrophic consequences on the battlefield. During a simulated call for fire from air support, 38% (6 out of 16) of the participants failed to identify the intended target's position and instead reported their own. This finding and the user interface interventions implemented to resolve it are discussed within the context of human perception and cognition.
Lessons Learned from Plant Modernization Programs and their Implications for Reactor Design
Authors: O'Hara John , Higgins James , Persensky J , Lewis Paul
Published: January 2012

There is renewed interest in nuclear power in the United States and in constructing new reactors within the next decade. The new reactors likely will be based on advanced digital technology unlike most of the current plants. To better understand the human factors issues associated with these advanced systems, we studied plants that have undergone significant modernization using digital technology. Many of the lessons learned from these plants are also applicable to advanced designs and we are analyzing them with the goal of developing guidance for conducting safety reviews to ensure that both the modernization programs and advanced plant designs realize their potential safety and operational benefits and do not adversely impact human performance and safety. The purpose of this paper is to identify the lessons learned from the modernization programs and their implications for design reviews.
Evaluating Both Usability and Desirability in the Evaluation of Cell Phones: Towards an Integrated Model
Authors: Moody Laura , Burtner Joan
Published: January 2012

The goal of human-centered product design is to create products that are useful, usable, and desirable. For many years, human factors has been about research, modeling, and evaluating the functional usefulness and usability of products and systems. In recent years, however, the role of emotion in product design has become a ‘hot topic’ for human factors professionals, and a variety of methods have been developed for identifying emotional needs and the emotional response people have to products. In this paper, a preliminary study aimed at developing an integrated understanding of the functional and emotional aspects of user experience with cell phones is discussed. A variety of techniques were employed and the combined data analyzed to develop a holistic picture of the user experience. We anticipate that the results of the study will serve as ‘proof of concept’ for future development work.
Case Study on Evacuation Rates within the World Trade Center Towers on September 11, 2001
Authors: Colwell Jeff D. , Mongia Rajiv K. , Reza Ali
Published: January 2012

While movement of people in crowds and fire drills has been studied by numerous investigators, little data exist for real fire evacuations. This is largely due to the difficulty in establishing an accurate position-time history for the evacuees. The evacuation of the World Trade Center North and South Towers on September 11, 2001 was unique in that major, catastrophic events occurred at distinct times during the evacuation. In this paper, 14 evacuation case studies are presented in which the evacuee reported their position at these known points in time to the media. From this position-time history, the descent rate of these evacuees could be determined. These descent rates are not necessarily representative of the evacuation population in general, but they do provide some distinct data points which are of value to the fire protection and building evacuation community in assessing evacuation from high-rise buildings.
A Preliminary Investigation of Costs and Benefits in Dietary Decisions
Authors: Smith Danielle Paige
Published: January 2012

This paper describes an exploratory study that examined the perceived costs and benefits and general attitudes toward dietary supplements and seeking a doctor's dietary advice. Thirty-five undergraduates completed a survey packet that used various methods to assessed attitudes toward dieting and obesity (i.e. Likert scales, cost-benefit generation, scenario-based decision tasks). Results generally replicate past work, in that participants were unsure about the safety and regulation of dietary supplements, and although physician's advice is important, they were unlikely to seek their doctor's advice prior to beginning to try and lose weight. Further, responses indicated a perception of few risks associated with seeking physician's advice; however, these appear to be weighted heavily when deciding on a dietary method based on the scenario decision-making task. The implications of these results on planned future research are discussed.