Undergraduate Human Factors Education: Could it be Utilized and Marketed Better?

Abstract

This panel session addresses the concern that undergraduate education in human factors has not been utilized or marketed effectively. Specifically, the panelists propose that an undergraduate course or program is a means by which to inform people about the human factors area, to prepare undergraduate students for employment with a bachelors degree, and to enhance the working student's skills needed in the workplace. Additionally, the use of undergraduate education as a proactive means to introduce and attract individuals to the field of human factors is presented.

Experiences with Postdoctoral Training in Human Factors: Mentor and Trainee Perspectives

“…Prior conversations related to training in the human factors and ergonomics (HFE) discipline have largely focused on undergraduate and graduate education (Dul et al, 2012; Hannon et al, 2021; Stone et al, 2016). To our knowledge, no literature or HFES sessions have focused on postdoctoral experiences in HFE.…”

Industrial–Organizational and Human Factors Graduate Program Admission

“…Gardner-Bonneau, 1984). Discussions about increasing HF content in introductory psychology texts, identifying better ways to attract undergraduates to the HF field, as well as how to increase the pipeline into the HF profession are long standing (e.g., Brill, DeLucia, Flach, Kaber, & Youmans, 2013;Stone, 1995). Thus, both IO psychology and HF would likely benefit by having this information more widely disseminated.…”