Abstract
Human factors and ergonomics are quickly evolving and new areas of application are introduced around the world. In industrially developing countries (IDC's) the emphasis was in the past on physical workload. With the introduction of computers there has been a sudden shift in interest, and the problems of HCI and usability of complex systems have become paramount. This panel will discuss the changes in ergonomics, and how they are affected by changing work ethics, and changing needs of the society. It is argued that ergonomics is well suited to adapt to new goals and respond to difficult challenges. As a result we need to prepare ourselves in education and training to meet the new demands in ergonomics. Can certification programs for ergonomists be flexible enough to consider current needs, and can teaching programs incorporate new knowledge? What are some effects on the type of research that will be conducted in the future. How will ergonomics professionals deal with design and applications. These are some of the issues that will be discussed in this panel session.
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