Studying Human Performance
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MMME4071 | Mechanical, Materials & Manufacturing Engineering | 4 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- MMME4071
- School
- Mechanical, Materials & Manufacturing Engineering
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
The module aims to give a broad review of the measurement techniques which can be used in ergonomic analysis and evaluation of systems or products, together with an understanding of the need for experimental design and control in order to obtain valid and meaningful results. It also provides a theoretical basis for techniques which may be practised during laboratory work and exercises in other human factors modules.
The syllabus covers:
Introduction to experimental design experimental controls selection and recruitment of subjects user trials ethical considerations
Observational methods: direct and indirect observation recording techniques measurement of behaviour activity sampling
Subjective measurements: ranking methods, rating scales, application in interviews and questionnaires
Task analysis: task description tabular and hierarchical task analysis applications
Introduction to statistical analysis software
Descriptive statistics
Statistical analysis: Types of data Normal distribution Non-parametric tests Parametric 2 samples tests, Correlation and regression, Chi Square, ANOVA
Target Students
Only MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics students in Department of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering and MSc Human-Computer Interaction students.
Assessment
- 30% Coursework 1: Coursework 1: 30%,
- 30% Coursework 2: Coursework 2: 30%,
- 40% Exam 1 (2-hour): Exam (2hr): 40%
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
This module aims to give a broad review of the methods and statistical techniques that can be used in the Human Factors assessment of products, workplaces and systems. It also provides a theoretical basis for techniques which may then be practiced in other Human Factors modules and project work.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
LO1 - Analyse products and workplaces using a range of different methods to suit the needs, capabilities and limitations of people in their physical/social/organisational environments.
LO2 - Compare and contrast different methodological approaches when investigating Human Factors issues.
LO3 - Evaluate methods and statistical techniques (and their emergent data) for use in addressing Human Factors issues.
LO4 - Demonstrate the application of specific methods and statistical techniques in practical contexts.
LO5 - Select and execute statistical tests to solve a Human Factors-related problem.