ERG130 | 01/15 - 03/10/2024 | Cognitive Human Factors and Ergonomics

January 15 - March 10, 2024 (Online)

This course explores the essential topics of human information processing, controls and displays, sensory and cognitive contributions to systems, and implications for the design of systems in the workplace. The field of human factors and ergonomics is interdisciplinary, with applications wherever humans interact with equipment in a system's context. Examples will be drawn from a wide range of work contexts, including medicine, transportation, and computer tasks. Learners will differentiate cognitive ergonomics, and how it fits into design and analysis. Typical design problems will be highlighted, and learners will have the opportunity to apply them to their own workplace and experiences. 

Learning Objectives

At the completion of this activity, the learner will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role and scope of cognitive ergonomics in the planning, evaluation, and effectiveness of systems

  • Articulate the implications and consequences of human factors applications in a systems context

  • Apply cognitive ergonomics theory, concepts and strategies to improve systems in relevant work contexts

  • Measure and describe cognitive human performance in a systems context

  • Articulate how cognitive ergonomics fits into the larger ergonomics field

  • Appraise the potential ethical and global impacts of the use of cognitive ergonomics

Picture of Elizabeth Sanli, PhD

Instructor: Elizabeth Sanli, PhD

Dr. Sanli received her BKin. (2007) and M.Sc. Applied Health Sciences, Kinesiology (2009) from Brock University, her Ph.D. in Kinesiology (2013) from McMaster University, and her B.Ed. from Memorial University (2022). She is currently an Instructor (Research) at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland. Her research focuses on skills learning and cognitive ergonomics, particularly within vocational training contexts. Dr. Sanli has published 25+ scientific articles.