Course overview
This course offers an introduction to how human limitations and capabilities affect the design of objects and systems. Starting with fundamental aspects of Human Factors such as ergonomics and human perception and extending into considerations of how limitations and variability in human cognitive abilities affect decisions regarding the design of systems and processes relating to such areas as personnel selection, occupational safety, and human-computer interactions. This course is a core for students completing a major in defence systems as part of their Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) program as well as students enrolled in the Bachelor of Technology (Defence Industries) program.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify factors that can impact on the behaviour of individuals in the workplace and apply these factors to structure tasks and work environments to enhance both organisational and individual outcomes.
- Explain how a wide range of abilities and limitations affect human task performance and impact on the design of objects, systems and processes.
- Compare and contrast decision making theories and practices from human factors and rational standpoints.
- Identify and apply appropriate theories and models of human factors and human performance within a task analysis process.