bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Evaluation of Personas as Information
Authors: Chapman Christopher N. , Love Edwin , Milham Russell P. , ElRif Paul , Alford James L.
Published: January 2012

The personas method is said to present information about people of interest for product design. We propose a formal model to understand persona information in terms of factual attributes. Using an analytic model, we show that the expected prevalence rate of persona descriptions decreases rapidly as attributes are added. We then evaluate this expectation empirically. Using six survey datasets ranging from N=268 to N=10307 respondents and two simulated datasets, we determine the prevalence rates of 10000 randomly generated persona-like descriptions per dataset. Consistent with prediction, we observe decreasing prevalence rates as attributes are added. Pearson's r for observed vs. predicted prevalence, transformed to multinormality, ranges r(9998)=0.394 to r(9998)=0.869 in the sampled datasets (all p < 0.001). Because descriptions with many attributes are likely to represent few people, we suggest that personas should be assessed empirically before they are assumed to describe real groups of people.
Assessing Interactive System Effectiveness with Usability Heuristics and Markov Models of User Behavior
Authors: Lee Lashanda , Kaber David B.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this research was to create a new measure of usability to aid in determining whether the intent of system designers is realized and to objectively assess user behavior as a basis for interface design recommendations. There are currently few quantitative, objective measures of usability among many subjective measures. A measure combining both objective and subjective data may be valuable in determining user perceptions of system designs and whether performance goals are achieved. The present research used a human computer interaction framework, representing the user, input, the system and output, as a basis for designer and user interface evaluation forms. These forms were used in combination with a Markov model of average number of user actions in task performance in order to determine an overall system usability effectiveness score. The methodology was applied to the evaluation of the design of a web-based ordering interface. The new measurement technique appeared to be sensitive to interface design changes and may be more effective than subjective methods (alone) for determining if interfaces meet design and performance objectives.
Macroergonomic Challenges in Implementation of Healthcare Information Technology
Authors: Alvarado Carla J. , Carayon Pascale , Karsh Ben-Tzion , Kaushal Rainu , Perry Shawna J. , Walker James M.
Published: January 2012

The proposed Macroergonomics and Patient Safety panel will address the particular challenges of healthcare information technology (HIT) and Patient Safety. The development of information technology in health care remains a driving force in American health care facilities, yet little human factors and systems engineering information is available to improve the implementation of HIT. Given the complexity of clinical informatics technology and the intricacy of modern medical care, human factors (HF) and macroergonomic analysis (MA) are especially important in the design, implementation, and use of various HIT. HF and MA should be used to better understand the challenge of developing multi-perspective evaluations for this technology. The panel of experts' presentations and the discussion to follow will address current research on patient safety and integration of HIT.
Macroergonomics of Education Reform: A Framework for Transforming Merit-Based Educator Compensation Systems
Authors: Kraemer Sara , Thorn Chris , Watson Jeffery
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a macroergonomic approach to education reform with a specific focus on programs and policies around merit-based educator compensation. There has been some research on specific human factors issues in education learning environments, but there has not been a focus on the programmatic and system-wide issues related to education systems at various levels (i.e., district-, school-, grade-, and classroom-levels). We present a Macroergonomic Framework for Education Reform whose intent is to identify and describe the various characteristics of an education sociotechnical system: the social, organizational, technical, and external environment subsystems. Specific examples are provided from work conducted with the Center for Education Compensation Reform and grantees implementing differentiated merit-based educator compensation systems.
Computer Based Training with a Twist: Leveraging Peer-to-Peer Learning to Improve Training Effectiveness
Authors: Harris Dana Black , Peres S. Camille , Tamborello Franklin P.
Published: January 2012

A good training program can increase productivity within an organization. This paper explores characteristics associated with a training program that leverages specific learning paradigms that have been shown to increase retention and transfer of information and increase worker efficiency. One of the most widely reported, although rarely measured, method of learning software is through peers. However, little research has been done on this method and most training programs do not incorporate this element into their training. We propose a training program that will incorporate and facilitate learning from peers in the work setting. This will extend the training program beyond the initial training period or session and could lead to better retention and transfer of the material learned. Further, this may lead to the trainees learning about more advanced features of the software subsequent to the training session itself.
Effect of Contrast Polarity between Background and Foreground in Air Traffic Control Displays for Time-To-Contact (TTC) Judgments
Authors: Dion Marshall , Strybel Thomas Z.
Published: January 2012

The effect of contrast polarity on arrival-time judgment tasks was investigated in a simulated air traffic controller task. Each participant predicted which of two symbols moving to a contact point symbol would arrive when the display was terminated once the winning symbol was two-thirds of the distance to the given contact point. Accuracy was calculated as percentage correct and was submitted to a 5-way and a 6-way mixed-design ANOVA in order to examine the effects of contrast polarity. The results are discussed in conjunction with possible effects of contrast polarity on arrival-time judgments and the predominance of either distance or velocity information on these judgments.
A Test of Intra-versus Inter-Modality Interference as a Function of Time Pressure in a Warfighting Simulation
Authors: Grier Rebecca A. , Parasuraman Raja , Entin Elliot E. , Bailey Nathan , Stelzer Emily
Published: January 2012

Useful task managers that can effectively monitor, prioritize, and distribute tasks to our warfighters are being sought. A critical need for the creation of task managers is an understanding of the conditions that lead to successful multi-tasking. The present study is an initial empirical step at increasing this understanding within the environment of a Command and Control (C2) Dynamic Targeting Cell (DTC). We examined operator performance and workload for participants deploying assets to attack enemy targets and their ability to concurrently monitor auditory or visual communications in three conditions of time-pressure (low, medium, and high). Results showed a significant impact in high time-pressure conditions, especially when operators had to process multiple sources of information from the same modality. These findings are a critical step as to understanding multi-tasking performance in C2 environments in general and with regard to communication and spatial monitoring tasks in particular.
Head-Up-Displays Support Response Preparation in a Lane Change Task
Authors: Hofmann Peter , Rinkenauer Gerhard , Gude Dietmar
Published: January 2012

In addition to visual design characteristics of head-up-displays (HUDs) in vehicles, the impact of HUDs on response preparation in driving has to be investigated. The current pilot study examined the effects of both temporal response preparation and movement planning on driving performance in a lane change task. Participants received a temporal warning stimulus within a HUD conveying full or no information about the direction of an upcoming lane change maneuver. After a variable foreperiod, they had to react as quickly as possible to the subsequent imperative stimulus, which was also shown in the HUD. The results indicated that temporal preparation was supported best at foreperiods of 600 ms and 1200 ms. Full advance information led to a reaction time advantage of approximately 70 ms. As temporal preparation and movement planning interacted, too, both mechanisms of response preparation potentially affect the same stage of the human information processing chain. Possible applications of the results are discussed.
Effects of Temporal and Spatial Demands on the Distribution of Eye Fixations
Authors: Camilli Marco , Terenzi Michela , Di Nocera Francesco
Published: January 2012

Recent studies have shown that statistical indices of spatial dispersion computed over the distribution of fixations could be effectively used to derive a stable measure of the cognitive resources allocated to a task. This approach is particularly appealing, given that it allows computing a workload value with a 1-minute resolution, thus making it possible to use it as a trigger for some adaptive systems. The present study reports two experiments aimed at separating the contribution of two types of demands (temporal and visuo-spatial). Results showed that temporal demand led to dispersed pattern, whereas visuo-spatial demand led to grouped pattern of fixations.
Why do I like It? the Relationships between Icon Characteristics, user Performance and Aesthetic Appeal
Authors: McDougall Siné J. P. , Reppa Irene
Published: January 2012

Until recently the guiding tenet in human-computer interaction was that any interface must be easy to learn and use. However, it has been increasingly recognized that the appeal of the interface to the user and their enjoyment of it is also important. The aim of the current study was to examine the nature of the relationships between icon characteristics, user performance, and aesthetic appeal. When participants were asked to rate the appeal of a corpus of icons, it was found that the same icon characteristics predicted appeal as those predicting user performance. The theoretical and practical implications of the remarkable similarity in the factors determining appeal and usability are discussed.
On Visual, Vibrotactile, and 3D Audio Directional Cues for Dismounted Soldier Waypoint Navigation
Authors: Eriksson Lars , Berglund Aseel , Willén Bengt , Svensson Jonathan , Petterstedt Michael , Carlander Otto , Lindahl Björn , Allerbo Göran
Published: January 2012

We compared a visual GPS, a tactile torso belt, and a 3D audio display in a waypoint navigation task for dismounted soldiers. Using these displays one at a time, the soldier's main tasks were to walk as fast and straight as possible towards the waypoints while visually scanning the terrain for detection of target flags. The results showed that all three types of displays gave similar navigation precision and target detection performance. The visual display entailed a somewhat higher navigation speed than the tactile and 3D audio displays. Both the visual and 3D audio displays, however, were rated as directing attention away from the terrain more than the tactile display. Compared to the tactile display, a higher mental workload was reported for the 3D audio, which was also rated least suitable for operational use in navigation tasks. Yet, the soldiers' ability to localize directions to waypoints with the 3D audio display may point to its potential use for radio communication and cueing of directions to threats. In an overall evaluation, eight soldiers preferred the tactile display and four the visual, while none preferred the 3D audio. We discuss the results mainly regarding shortcomings of the study and the possibility of developing and combining the three display types for the dismounted soldier.
Multimodal Threat Cueing in Simulated Combat Vehicle
Authors: Oskarsson Per-Anders , Eriksson Lars , Lif Patrik , Lindahl Björn , Hedström Johan
Published: January 2012

We investigated three types of display combinations for threat cueing in a simulated combat vehicle. The display combinations consisted of two bimodal combinations, a visual head-up display (HUD) combined with 3D audio; a tactile torso belt combined with 3D audio; and a multimodal combination, the HUD, tactile belt, and 3D audio combined. The participant's main task was to as fast as possible align the heading of the combat vehicle with the displayed direction to a threat. To increase general task difficulty and provide a secondary measure of mental workload, the participant also was required to identify radio calls. Threat localization accuracy was highest and reaction time shortest with the use of both the HUD combined with 3D audio and with the multimodal display. Subjective ratings of perception of initial threat direction were most positive for both the tactile belt combined with 3D audio and for the multimodal display. The ratings of perceived threat direction at the final phase of threat alignment, however, were most positive for the HUD combined with 3D audio and for the multimodal display. Thus, the multimodal display with HUD, tactile belt, and 3D audio combined proved to be beneficial for all measures.
Effect of the Number Pad on Mousing Location
Authors: Levine Thomas
Published: January 2012

Previous research has suggested that the mousing location that encourages the best posture cannot be used when the keyboard has a number pad, so researchers have suggested using keyboards without number pads. No previous researcher has tested whether users actually use the extra space available when they use keyboards without number pads. Participants were videotaped working at a computer workstation using a keyboard with a number pad in one round and using a keyboard without a number pad in the other round. The initial mouse placement locations were compared between the two rounds. The mouse was placed closer to the center of the workstation when the keyboard without a number pad was used ( p < 0.001). These results suggest that a change in keyboard without any instruction or training is enough to encourage computer users to use the mouse closer to the sagittal plane, which in turn should encourage better posture. Keyboards without number pads should be used instead of standard, full-size keyboards.
Fitts' Law Predictions with an Alternative Pointing Device (Wiimote®)
Authors: Campbell Bryan A. , O'Brien Katharine R. , Byrne Michael D. , Bachman Benjamin J.
Published: January 2012

A Nintendo® Wiimote® enabled testing of both zero- and first-order of control for a Fitts' Law-style pointing task using the same device. The Wiimote® differs from standard computer input devices in that the user has available a full range of three-dimensional motions. Participants were assigned to one of the two orders of control and completed a pointing task that included 50 trials on three sets of boxes, each a different size and distance from each other. Results indicated that participants using the Wiimote® as a zero-order input device (i.e., directly controlling cursor position) were roughly 2.5 times faster at completing the task than those using the Willmote® as a first-order device, (i.e., controlling cursor velocity). As expected, participants using the first-order controller had smaller effective distances than those using the zero-order control scheme. Surprisingly, no meaningful differences were found between the two groups for overall error rate. This raises interesting questions for the future of three-dimensional control devices.
Improving Perceptual Judgments under Emotional States
Authors: Tran Tuan Q. , Raddatz Kimberly R. , Werth Abigail
Published: January 2012

System operators in complex environments (e.g., nuclear power control rooms) often make decisions while under periods of high emotional arousal. Emotional state has been shown to affect the time and quality of decision-making, but more examination is needed. Raddatz et al. (2007) found that participants under positive emotion made less accurate perceptual judgments in perspective displays than participants under negative and neutral emotion (all used “first-look” instructions). Results were consistent with Tiedens & Linton (2001) framework suggesting that positive emotion induces overconfidence and less motivation to question initial judgment. The current study investigated whether instructional set could attenuate the detrimental effect of positive emotion. Using “objective” instructions (implying a “right” answer), positive participants made more accurate perceptual judgments than negative or neutral participants. Further, positive participants were significantly more accurate under objective instructions than phenomenal instructions, whereas neutral and negative participants were relatively unaffected by instructional set. Implications for human system interaction are discussed.
Obesity Adds Constraint on Balance Control and Movement Performance
Authors: Berrigan F. , Hue O. , Teasdale N. , Simoneau M.
Published: January 2012

We examined if a weight loss program improves the speed-accuracy tradeoff of goal-directed aiming movements of obese individuals. Ten obese subjects aimed at targets of different sizes from a seated and a standing posture. The kinematics of the aiming was recorded. All participants were evaluated before and after a weight loss program when weight reduction had stabilized. Before weight loss, movement times and duration of deceleration phases were longer when subjects were standing than when they were seated. These effects vanished after weight loss. Weight loss yielded an increased aiming speed when subjects aimed at targets from an upright posture and this effect was greater for the smaller target. This difference was not observed when seated. The results suggest that a more stable postural platform resulting from weight loss allows a better control of the upper-limb movement.
Formats for Section Safety Messages in Printed Manuals
Authors: Jensen Roger C. , Jenrich Erin
Published: January 2012

This study compared four formats for safety messages in printed manuals based on layouts found in a new standard of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z535.6, 2006). These four designs are specifically for use as section safety messages. Two used a signal word panel, and two used a safety alert symbol (exclamation in a triangle). The four formats were rated by 55 college students from three different classes using a five-point scale for hazardousness. All four messages were presented on the same page of a test booklet, with order balanced using a Latin Square. Results of a Friedman test indicated significant differences in ratings. The ranked order of the formats based on estimated median was yellow safety alert symbol left of the text (3.37), signal word in black panel above text (3.13), signal word in black panel imbedded in first line of text (2.87), and black hazard alert symbol left of the text (2.13). Post-hoc analyses of ratings using a Bonferroni test indicated the signs fit into three groups: the two highest rated signs, the second and third rated signs, and the lowest rated sign.
Robot Features are Examined as Artifacts, not as “Faces”
Authors: Sims Valerie K. , Chin Matthew G. , Ellis Linda U. , Pepe Aaron A. , Sinatra Anne M. , Finkelstein Neal
Published: January 2012

This study examines how individuals look at robot “faces,” and whether the same methods are used when examining the human face. Participants' eyes were tracked as they viewed faces of both popular media and research robots. Results show that participants use different look patterns, in terms of fixation times, when looking at robot faces as compared to human faces. Additionally, participants focused on particular parts of the face differently depending on their view of the robot's attributes like aggressiveness, familiarity. Implications for human robot collaborations are discussed.
University Students' Notebook Computer Use
Authors: Jacobs Karen
Published: January 2012

University students are self-reporting musculoskeletal discomfort with computer use similar to levels reported by adult workers. The objective of this research study was to determine how university students use notebook computers and to determine what ergonomic strategies might be effective in reducing their self-reported musculoskeletal discomfort. Two hundred and eighty-nine university students, who were randomly assigned to one of three conditions, participated in this study. Participants who received notebook computer accessories and those who received these accessories and participatory ergonomics training reported a significant reduction in self-reported notebook computer-related discomfort. A significant increase in rest breaks occurred with a significant correlation between self-reported computer usage and the amount measured using WorkPace®, a computer usage software.
Improving Shared Cognition in Forward Surgical Teams: From Theory to Learning Strategies
Authors: Wilson Katherine A. , Rosen Michael A. , Salas Eduardo , Robinson Donald W. , Augenstein Jeffrey S.
Published: January 2012

Forward surgical teams must perform an extremely complex task (i.e., manage critically injured soldiers) under extreme time pressure, noise, and other stressors while managing some of the most high stakes for decision and action outcomes imaginable—human life. This paper explores the role of shared cognition in the performance of forward surgical teams and draws connections to specific learning strategies that can be used to foster shared cognition and ultimately safety and effectiveness. Additionally, principles for each of the learning strategies are provided.
A Tool to Evaluate Information Exchange in a Joint, Interagency, Multinational, and Public (JIMP) Environment
Authors: Taylor Tamsen , Martin Lora Bruyn , Chow Renee , Smith David , Farrell Philip , Allen Dave
Published: January 2012

The intent of this project was to develop and test a database of questions that could be used to assess information exchange within a team-of-teams operating in a Joint, Interagency, Multinational, and Public (JIMP) environment. This work involved an initial identification of question categories (performance, effectiveness, efficiency, conditions, processes, and products) based on a review of the literature relevant to information exchange and performance in teams-of-teams. Question categories and sample questions were reviewed by scientific Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs) and modifications were made in accordance with the feedback received. A complete inventory of questions for each question category was developed and an online version of the questionnaire was pilot tested. Recommendations for future work include refinement and subsequent validation of the questionnaire and the use of supplementary measures of information exchange performance, in combination with the questionnaire, to get a more complete picture of information exchange.
A New Measure to Evaluate Left Turns of Novice Drivers
Authors: Mourant Ronald R. , Gundewadi Namrata , Yin Zhishuai , Jaeger Beverly K.
Published: January 2012

Reliable measures of driving skill are important for driving simulators to play a larger role in driver education and training. In this study we measured the adequacy of left turns of 12 novice and 12 experienced drivers using a new performance measure. We called this Entry Lane Position Error (ELPE) and defined it as the perpendicular distance from the center of the lane being entered to the center of the vehicle's width at the point of new lane entrance. The different between average scores of ELPE for the novice and experienced groups was highly significant. In a driving simulator the participant's position and the road database are always available. Participants should be able to receive near real-time feedback as to the goodness of their lane turns. Visual playback of left turns is also easily implemented on most driving simulators We hope to investigate and analyze other simple performance measures that can reflect the skill level of novice drivers.
The Development of the Driving Skill Assessment Tool (DSAT)
Authors: Lampel Liat , Ronen Adi , Oron-Gilad Tal
Published: January 2012

The primary objective of the current work was to develop an extensive driving skill assessment questionnaire for identifying drivers' level of skill, the Driving Skill Assessment Tool (DSAT). To generate the DSAT, a scientific and medical literature review was conducted along with experts' interviews. DSAT items were either self-developed or adopted from other questionnaires. The items list has the following characteristics: (1) a five scale Lickert in the format given in the DSI was adopted; (2) DSAT items were written in the first-person singular and were worded in the form of statement to which subjects could express their level of agreement; (3) redundancy policy was used; (4) Items were not organized in any particular order and were added in several instances. The comprehensive DSAT items list included 483 items. Factor analysis was performed twice, after which, we matched each statement with loading above 0.5 to its factor. The second analysis found 20 factors which explained 72.31% of the total variance. Finally, we identified four relevant factors for skill assessment; dealing with traffic situations and controlling the vehicle; driving in difficult conditions; merging in traffic; and adapting to road conditions and one factor related to safety motive. This DSAT's version includes 92 items.
Using Visual Attention Video Games and Traditional Interventions to Improve Baggage Screening
Authors: Pavlas Davin , Rosen Michael A. , Fiore Stephen M. , Salas Eduardo
Published: January 2012

Vigilance tasks represent an increasingly critical performance segment for civilians and military personnel alike. In order to combat the vigilance decrement and aid in making personnel more effective, it is necessary to find innovative ways to mitigate the vigilance decrement and aid the human visual system. One such technique lies in an interesting field; recent findings suggest that action video games modify the visual attention system in a way that is particularly useful to performance in a sustained attention task. This article discusses the nature of these findings in the context of improving performance in a common vigilance task: baggage screening.
Development of a Computerized Model for Evaluation of Manual Insertion of Flexible Hoses in Automobile Assembly
Authors: Gusich Brad R. , Armstrong Thomas J. , Seo Na Jin , Grieshaber D. Christian
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this work was to develop a protocol and a related computer application, herein called the Hose Insertion Program, which predicts human insertion capability for flexible hoses as a function of worker, hose, and task factors. The protocol is based on previous studies of hand strength, posture, friction, and hand clearance, and provides the logic for the program's algorithms. To demonstrate and evaluate the program, seven different hose insertions were selected from an automobile assembly plant. After modeling the whole body forces capable using human modeling software, raw data from these insertions and the output from the human modeling software were entered into the Hose Insertion Program. Because assembly operators were observed performing these insertions, it was hypothesized that the program output would indicate that the “insertion force capable” would be greater than “insertion force required” for both whole body and coupling force for the gender and approximated size/strength percentiles observed at the plant. Such an output would mean that the program accurately predicted that these operators were able to perform the hose insertion. For whole body push forces modeled in human modeling software and then entered into the Hose Insertion Program, all 7 outputs were accurate in stating that the operators were capable of performing the task. Of the 7 “insertion force capable” output opportunities for coupling forces related to the observed insertion operations, all 7 outputs were accurate in stating that the operators were capable of performing the task.
Control and Display Evaluation Using the Engineering Control Analysis Tool (ECAT)
Authors: Plott Beth
Published: January 2012

In the DoD as well as in many industries increased use of automated sensors and advanced control systems is expected to reduce and/or change manning requirements. However, critical questions remain regarding the extent to which safety will be compromised if the cognitive workload associated with monitoring multiple automated systems is increased. This paper will describe a new tool that was developed to enhance the ability of human systems integration (HSI) professionals and systems engineers to identify operational tasks in which a high potential for human overload and error can be expected. The tool is entitled the Engineering Control Analysis Tool (ECAT). ECAT was designed and developed to assist in the analysis of: Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM), operator task requirements, human error probabilities, workload prediction, potential control and display problems, and potential panel layout problems.
Equivalent-Forms Reliability of Printed and Spoken Versions of the NASA-TLX
Authors: Grant R. , Carswell CM. , Lio C. , Seales W. B. , Clarke D.
Published: January 2012

Sixty-four participants provided subjective workload assessments after each of 15 trials of selected laparoscopic training tasks, including cannulation, ring transfer, and rope inspection. Half of the participants responded to the NASA-TLX using the traditional printed format with manual (written) responses. The remainder listened to auditory scale cues and made vocal responses. A comparison of the two formats revealed strong (r > .80) correlations and equivalent sensitivity to task and training effects, indicating that the vocal format may be a suitable substitute for traditional administration methods in the evaluation of surgical technology.
Eye-Tracking in a Dual-Task Design: Investigating Eye-Movements, Mental Workload, and Performance
Authors: Gomer Joshua , Walker Alex , Gilles Florian , Duchowski Andrew
Published: January 2012

Currently there are conflicting opinions regarding dual-task performance. Research by Svensson, Angelborg-Thanderz, Sjoberg, and Olsson (1997) demonstrated that adding a moderately complex secondary task decreased performance on a primary task. Contradictory to this, Kathmann, Hochrein, and Uwer (1999) demonstrated primary task performance benefits with the addition of a secondary task. The study reported here further examined the effect of a secondary task on primary task performance. In this design a baseline primary task only condition was compared to primary task performance in low, medium, and high demand dual-task scenarios. The primary task in this experiment was a paddle-ball game and the secondary task consisted of horizontal addition. This study investigated performance, subjective mental workload, the number and duration of fixations, and transitions in an effort to better understand changes in eye movements as they relate to changes in demand. Results of this study showed significant decreases in performance as well as significant increases in mental workload and transitions across conditions of increasing demand. Discussion of these results illustrates the need for further investigation and considerations for the intelligent design of user interfaces.
Perception and Displays for Teleoperated Robots
Authors: Ellis Linda U. , Sims Valerie K. , Chin Matthew G. , Ellis Jeremy D. , Upham Lisa J. , Jannone Sheana R.
Published: January 2012

In remote or teleoperational tasks involving humans and robots, various aspects of the remote display system may greatly influence the individual's interactions with the teleoperated entity. We look at the effects of display size, display orientation, and display viewpoint on several measures of operator performance, physiological state, and perceptions of the task. Overall performance is measured in terms of accuracy and completion times. Physiological state is assessed through physiological markers of arousal, specifically heart rate, pulse, and skin conductance. Operator perception of the task is measured with a collection of self reported perceptions of workload, frustration, and sense of control. Results indicate that there are significant performance-related and physiological changes in the operator due to conditions of screen size, angle, and viewpoint. Small screen size was most associated with increased workload. Results have important implications for teleoperated robot display design.
A Multivariate Evaluation Method for Representative Human Model Generation Methods: Application to Grid Method
Authors: Jung Kihyo , You Heecheon , Kwon Ochae
Published: January 2012

A small number of representative human models (RHMs) are used for efficient product design and evaluation in digital environments; however, the multivariate performance evaluation on existing RHM generation methods has not been made. The present study developed a multivariate accommodation evaluation method, and then applied the proposed method to evaluation of the grid method which generates RHMs at scattered grids over the population distribution. The measure multivariate accommodation performance quantifies the proportion of the population within representative grids formed to accommodate a designated percentage of the target population. Twelve RHMs were generated by the grid method to accommodate 95% of the 1988 US Army anthropometric database and it was found that the accommodation performance of the RHMs decreased dramatically as the number of anthropometric dimensions increased (accommodation percentage = 99% for a one dimension and 10% for 10 dimensions). Multiple regression analysis identified that three factors (overlap area of representative grids, adjusted R2 between key dimensions and other body dimensions, and sum of body size ranges) significantly affect the accommodation percentage of the grid method. The proposed evaluation method is applicable for evaluation of other RHM generation methods.
Sensory Quality Evaluation of Clothes Washing Machine Selector Knobs
Authors: Kleiss James A.
Published: January 2012

The present study sought to expand upon the traditional role of human factors in assessing the efficiency with which users interact with controls to include the sensory quality of controls, in this case, clothes washing machine rotary selector knobs. Thirty seven participants operated and compared the selector knobs on nine clothes washing machines, providing similarity judgments, pleasantness ratings, and verbal comments regarding most liked and least liked features. A multidimensional scaling analysis revealed that participants perceived differences among knobs along two sensory dimensions: tactile feel (smooth versus distinct detents) and the loudness of the detent. Pleasantness was optimized at a medium value of detent loudness, but was constant across levels of tactile feel. Tactile feel, therefore, defines an ideal dimension along which to perceptually differentiate knobs for branding purposes without negatively impacting perceived pleasantness.
Characterizing and Differentiating the Semantic Qualities of Auditory Tones for Products
Authors: Kleiss James A.
Published: January 2012

Traditionally, sounds in user interfaces have served the practical purpose of providing feedback for control operations and informing users of various system states. The purpose of the present study was to explore properties of sounds that are not primarily functional in nature, but might be useful for characterizing and differentiating products based upon semantic qualities. Twenty nine short tonal sequences were created exhibiting a variety of musical properties. Each tonal sequence was evaluated by thirty five participants using a set of twenty three bipolar attribute rating scales intended to capture a range of semantic qualities. Results of a principal components factor analysis revealed four factors: elegance, sturdiness, complexity and activity. These results provide a conceptual framework for describing and differentiating among audio tones based upon their semantic qualities. Physical properties of sounds associated with each factor were also identified providing a design tool for creating new tones to fit a desired semantic profile.
Using Contextual Design Techniques to Identify Work Task Problems in Dynamic Work Environments – A Field Study of Isolating Safety Challenges for Small Builders
Authors: Hung Yu-Hsiu , Winchester Woodrow W.
Published: January 2012

Contextual Design (CD) is a structured method for collecting, interpreting and aggregating qualitative data about work processes and is typically used for creating software that addresses user's needs of a particular task in static indoor environments. In this paper, we discuss the use of CD techniques - Contextual Inquiry and Work Modeling, to identify work task problems commonly existing across tasks in dynamic work environments. We also describe a field study that makes use of the CD techniques to isolate safety challenges – the most cited universal problem in the construction industry – for small builders. Six contractors participated in the study. Critical safety incidents of the observed construction tasks were utilized to identify safety challenges. The contextual interview data were integrated to form consolidated work models, each of which captured, from differing perspectives, the safety challenges of small builders. The insights could not only help construction stakeholders identify possible safety interventions in preventing accidents and/or injuries, but also aid in guiding the selection of appropriate interventions for implementation. The results of the field study provide evidence of CD as a descriptive research technique to identify engineering or administrative solutions to work task problems not only in static but also in dynamic work environments.
Construction Safety and Informal Training: A Two Part Study
Authors: Terry Travis N. , Burneo Pablo S. , Martinez Claudia M. , Riofrio Juan , Smith-Jackson Tonya
Published: January 2012

Informal training consistently occurs on construction worksites without planned or organized instruction or supervision. This study analyzes the benefits, circumstances, and means by which informal training occurs and construction workers' perceptions of job safety and potential hazards. Results indicated that construction owners had an overall positive view of informal training, with a few minor issues. The study also revealed that, although aware of dangers on the job, workers still often neglect safety measures and can benefit from informal training in day-to-day activities. The results should warrant more research on the topic of informal training in relation to construction safety and health and provides a context-based description of informal training.
A Simulator Experiment Investigating the Effects of Masked Indicators in a NPP Emergency Control Task: Scenario and Design
Authors: Broberg Helena , Hildebrandt Michael , Massaiu Salvatore , Braarud Per Øivind
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the scenario and participants of a simulator experiment investigating the performance of nuclear power plant (NPP) control room crews in a realistic accident scenario where multiple failures lead to masking of relevant diagnostic information. These conditions challenge emergency operating procedures and require crews to engage in knowledge-based problem solving. The study placed particular emphasis on generating rich operational descriptions of crew behavior and performance-shaping factors.
On Adding Sound to Quiet Vehicles
Authors: Nyeste Patrick , Wogalter Michael S.
Published: January 2012

Alternative energy vehicles such as hybrids and electric tend to run quieter than many hydrocarbon fueled vehicles. Their relative quietness could negatively affect pedestrian and driver safety because of reduced sound cues compared to louder vehicles. The present study examined preferences for sounds that might provide an acceptable auditory cue to quiet vehicles. Participants heard and then rated 18 sounds (3 variations in six categories). Each sound was displayed in conjunction with a video of a moving hybrid vehicle. The sounds of an engine, white noise, and hum sound in that order were most preferred as added sound to a quiet vehicle. Implications for adding sounds to facilitate pedestrians' detection of moving vehicles and for aiding drivers' awareness of speed are discussed.
Evaluation of a Conceptual Warning System for Mobile Phone Use While Driving to Increase Public Awareness
Authors: Ahmed Shaheen , Strawderman Lesley , Babski-Reeves Kari
Published: January 2012

Mobile phone use during driving continues to remain a cause in vehicular accidents. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a conceptual, in-vehicle warning design to increase public awareness of the consequences of mobile phone use while driving. Warning messages were designed for both the driver and incoming callers, and were presented to 24 potential users to assess their effectiveness. Survey responses provide preliminary support for the use of the in-vehicle phone warning system. Many of the respondents underestimated statistics relating to vehicular deaths and mobile phone use. Additionally, 54% of the respondents indicated that they would not call someone who is driving, 42% believed that these messages will increase public awareness of the risks of phone use during driving, and 28% indicated they would stop phone use while driving based on the suggested design.
Insights from Applying Rigor Metric to Healthcare Incident Investigations
Authors: Patterson Emily S. , McNee Stephanie , Zelik Daniel , Woods David D.
Published: January 2012

Eight attributes of a rigorous intelligence analysis process were identified in prior research: hypothesis exploration, information search, information validation, stance analysis, sensitivity analysis, specialist collaboration, information synthesis, and explanation critiquing. Prior findings about new insights generated by augmenting traditional healthcare investigations with human factors expertise were categorized with respect to these attributes. This exploratory work shed light on how well the attributes generalize to a different domain and inspired suggestions for increasing the process rigor of healthcare investigations.
Privacy Concerns and Disclosure Behavior in a Health Setting
Authors: Caine Kelly E. , Burnham Kaylee E. , Fisk Arthur D. , Rogers Wendy A.
Published: January 2012

Health care practitioners need complete and accurate information to provide quality care to their patients. However, health information is considered to be highly private. Patients may have concerns about disclosing such information, especially if asked to provide this information using technology. The goal of this study was to investigate how participants' experience with a technology affect their level of disclosure in a health setting. Specifically, we were interested in understanding how the use of a health database system influences the disclosure of private health information. We asked 12 younger and 12 older adults to interact with a computerized health data entry system and then to rate the completeness and accuracy of their intended disclosures. Results indicate that, for the most part, participants would provide complete and accurate information using such a system. Younger adults were less likely than older adults to intend to disclose sensitive information, suggesting that additional information gathering may be appropriate for younger adults. The importance of providing a reason for the request of each piece of health information is discussed in relation to the setting where information is gathered.
Perceptual CUE Effects on Distance Estimation from Different Relative Approach Heading
Authors: Curtis Michael T. , Schuster David , Jentsch Florian , Harper-Sciarini Michelle , Swanson Ron
Published: January 2012

Dangers during the approach and landing phases of flight are still leading safety issues in aviation. In particular, inconsistent visual scenes have been associated with variations in pilot performance during visual approaches. While several factors have been identified as causes of such performance variation, such as impoverished visual cues and the geometrical ratio of the runway image, many other perceptual cues remain largely unexplored. This study examines how pilot performance in a visual approach task is affected by changes in the angle from centerline of the runway. Findings from this study will help determine the degree to which previously unexplored variables affect performance and help guide the development of future training for visual approach.
Differences in Gait Parameters between Non-Disabled and Intellectually Disabled Adults
Authors: Haynes Courtney A. , Lockhart Thurmon E.
Published: January 2012

There is little research available in the literature regarding the gait characteristics of adults with mental retardation (MR), despite this population's high propensity for falling. This study intends to provide a quantitative analysis of their gait patterns during normal walking in an effort to describe differences existing between this population and their non-disabled peers. Walking speed (SP), step length (SL), heel contact velocity (HCV), and required coefficient of friction (RCOFKE), are used to characterize unobstructed walking patterns. Knee and ankle joint angles are also used to compare postural differences between groups. ANOVA analysis revealed a significantly slower walking speed and significantly shorter step length for the MR group as compared with a group of healthy, age- and gender-matched peers. The MR group was also shown to have a lower RCOFKE than their healthy peers. By contrast, however, the MR group was found to have a significantly higher heel contact velocity. There were no significant differences between groups for neither the knee or ankle angle at heel contact nor for the maximum knee flexion angle during single stance. The ultimate goal of this study was to indentify differences in gait pattern caused by MR that may be lending to an increased fall rate among the mentally retarded.
Aurally Aided Visual Search with Musical Stimuli – An Eye Tracking Analysis
Authors: Crisler Matthew C. , Davenport Berry , Duchowski Andrew T.
Published: January 2012

Visual search is a complex visual task used in many industrial applications. It is also well studied experimentally, and represents an opportunity to test methods to present location information to people and compare to existing research. In this experiment, participants were asked to complete a challenging visual search task of finding the character “Y” within a background of two different densities of the character “X” (25% and 45%). Participants were cued as to the location of the target using 2 spatial audio methods and two types of stimuli (music and a harmonic tone). A Tobii eye tracker was used to present the visual search screens and track eye movements throughout the experiment in order to identify differences in search method between conditions.