Human factors

In this course, we will study how to design technological artifacts, systems, and environments in such a way that they support and enable the human brain to do what it does best. Students will learn about the principles and processes that govern the ways in which humans interact with technological products, systems and services. The role of fundamental technical interactive components, e.g., displays or controls, and of complex processes and interfaces, e.g., in medical environments, transportation, or advanced human-computer interaction (HCI), are highlighted based on properties of human perception and action, models of cognition and communication, and empirical performance data. In addition, in two group assignments, you will become acquainted with the design processes by which both simple and more complicated technological systems and artifacts can be constructed to optimally address the capabilities, limitation, needs, and expectations of their users.

Having completed the course, students will

• be able to provide insight in the behavioural processes determining the ways in which people interact with products, systems and services.

• obtain knowledge of research and evaluation methods, the iterative design cycle and standardized usability metrics.

• apply the theoretical knowledge of evaluation and usability metrics in two technological domains.

You must meet the following requirements

• Registered for a degree programme other than
• HBO-TOP Applied Physics, Pre-Master

• Designing For People: An Introduction to Human Factors Engineering” by Lee, Wickens, Liu, and Boyle, ISBN-10: 1539808009 (ISBN 978-1539808008)