Teaching the Future Human Factors and Ergonomics Professionals to Solve Practical Problems

Instilling future Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF/E) professionals with the knowledge and skills to solve complex problems is vital for the future of our field. Solving HF/E related practical problems requires a strong foundation in applicable theories and research as well as a variety of other skills. In terms of teaching students the key foundational knowledge, most consider HF/E degree programs a success. Along with this foundational knowledge, however, HF/E professionals need a variety of skills including skills in problem solving, skills in applying research to practice, and skills enabling them to work effectively on interdisciplinary teams. The purpose of this panel is to generate discussion regarding the current challenges that HF/E practitioners face in tackling the needs of industry and government and how HF/E related degree programs are addressing these issues. To accomplish this, five panelists will provide a variety of perspectives. One panelist provides the perspective of U.S. Department of Defense military system acquisition. Another panelist provides the perspective of working as a system safety engineer at an aircraft manufacturer. The three remaining panelists provide the perspective of educators and researchers. The universities that these three panelists represent offer bachelor, master's, and doctoral degrees in human factors, systems, and industrial engineering.