DEA4700/6700 Applied ergonomics methods

DEA 4700/6700 Applied Ergonomics Methods

This course focuses on the practices of ergonomics that make products more efficient, easier, more pleasurable, and happier to use, optimizing the quality of physical, cognitive, behavioral, and affective aspect of human-product relationships. The course covers a set of ergonomics methods and techniques, and their applications to the design and analysis of products, product-service-systems, and built-environments. Students will learn key concepts of ergonomics issues in relation to safety, productivity, functionality, and wellness in product use and develop an understanding of how the capabilities and (situated) constraints of human beings can be systematically considered in the development of products.

Learning objectives

  • To develop knowledge of the main concepts of ergonomics including human capabilities/limitations and how they would be incorporated into designed systems
  • To develop the practical skills to identify, analyze, and solve ergonomics problems of designed systems

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate:

  • Knowledge of ergonomics issues and relevant terminologies with respect to theories, processes, and practices.
  • A repertoire of skills associated with ergonomics assessment methods and analytical techniques.
  • An ability to select and deploy appropriate ergonomics methodologies and to articulate ergonomics issues qualitatively and quantitatively.
  • An ability to analyze the unmet needs and expectations of users, formulate informed ergonomic solutions, and select appropriate resources for designing with the users in mind.

Syllabus download (2020 Spring—PDF file)