PSY 356 - Human Factors and Ergonomics

3 credit(s)
In this course, we will take principles from cognitive psychology and apply them to real-world problems. For example, why is Microsoft considered “poor” design compared to Apple? How could cognitive psychology contribute to a redesign of Microsoft that would increase its performance? We will review basic cognitive psychology research and then show how it can be applied to human-computer interface design, preventing human error or accident, aid in decision making systems, or used to change training procedures for the military or even practices in clinical psychology. We will explore how making human interaction with systems more efficient, safe, and satisfying is critical to many products, companies, and society as whole. At the end of this course, we will be able to:
1. Recognize that psychology research can be used to evaluate and help solve a myriad of real-world problems.
2. Critique and design solutions to real-world problems that utilize psychological research methodologies and theories.
Prerequisite(s): Either PSY 105, or PSB 110 and PSB 111.

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Click here for Spring 2025 course scheduling information.