Low-Technology Demonstrations of the Role of Peripheral Vision in Human Factors and Ergonomics

Abstract

This paper provides two demonstrations that highlight the importance of peripheral vision issues in system design. The first demonstration concerns the ability of the visual system to detect motion, while the second addresses the impact of reduction of visual field on the perception of optical flow data. Educators can use these demonstrations as the basis for discussions about the design implications for warning displays, attention gathering devices, optical flow, off-axis accidents, aging, attention, and night vision goggles. These demonstrations can be used at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Relevant research findings are also discussed, and references for further exploration of the topics are provided.