European conference on cognitive ergonomics

Implementing cognitive ergonomics requires an appropriate framework. The matches and the mismatches of the cognitive processes can only be determined by an analytic conceptualization which is termed as framework here. The framework is made up of nothing else but the concepts, ideas and planning of the cognitive ergonomics. Not only the ideology or the concepts would complete the framework of the cognitive ergonomics rather it also requires the developing processes and the help used, to be included.

Cognitive ergonomics requires a proper framework for its successful implementation. By framework I mean the formation of an analytic structure required for the purpose of identifying the similarities and dissimilarities between the different cognitive processes. What it requires is for all the concepts and ideology of the cognitive ergonomics. Also, the development practices and the support required for it is needed for the framework in cognitive ergonomics.

Cognitive ergonomics focuses all its purpose on cognitive processes which include diagnosis, decision making and planning which one needs as an operator in modern industries. The main purpose except for carrying out different steps for a particular process includes enhancing of their performance. It includes design for human-machine interaction and HCI, making training programs, bring about increase in human reliability and development of systems in support for cognitive processes such as cognitive artifacts

Much is talked about cognitive ergonomics and how it is used in new technologies and designs. The process of getting there is just as important as it sets the tone for all the research. As time has gone methods and theories have been refined. First there was Hierarchical Task Analysis which was published in 1992 by Kirwan and Ainsworth. Also in the 90s works published included Hutchins “Distributed Cognition” and “Activity Theory” by Nardi. Now in the 2000s we have seen more works pop up including the “Cognitive Task Analysis”.

Even the US department of Homeland Security is running its own cognitive ergonomic studies. Recently they investigated if US citizens were even aware of the five levels of threat condition warning system. The five levels are: (low: green; guarded: blue; elevated: yellow; high: orange; severe: red). Once the study was concluded it went one step further to see how the wording, warning statements and color combinations effected the individuals. As you can see this plays a large role when dealing in a emergency situation. The proper use of colors and words could avert major loss of life.

An interesting study in how novice cell phone users found their way around the keypad while trying to send text messages. New users were studied as they tried to find keys on the keypad and write coherent thoughts. Users were eventually asked memorize the keypad and repeat the tasks. Significant changes in time were observed from the first study to the next. As users became more adapt to the keypad their speed in typing vastly improved. This study goes a long way into helping cell manufactures understand the needs of new cell phone users in today technological society.
Article by: mobiles5 – free ringtones for your mobile phone.

To get a better understanding of cognitive ergonomics it is best to look at some of the studies that have been undertaken by scientists in the field. One study went on to research how different colors of borders on safety warning signs went on to influence user actions. Another study investigated which one of the two major keyboard types ( with and without keypad ) gave greater performance when filling out forms. These are the types of studies that are prevalent in cognitive ergonomics. While they may seem small at first the impact of the studies is quite great. How lives are saved with the right colored sign?

Cognitive Ergonomics is necessary to keep our species moving forward with complex technology. When we design complex machines and systems that our lives depend on it becomes imperative that they are used properly and efficiently. Quite often cognitive ergonomics are used when creating user interfaces for complex operating systems and machinery. Imagine a industrial plant that is mostly automated. The user interface has to be designed in such a way that human error is minimized and an order of operations that is logical. If there is poor interface one wrong human move can cost employee lives.

E-learning is a growing part of the education sector but this study goes on to explore the possibilities of high skill training using the E-learning model. A e-learning program was developed that included high skill situations and interactive experimental testing. The study found that unskilled workers were able to learn complex tasks using these methods and retained the information well enough to be a viable worker in the field despite lacking expensive more traditional training methods.