Behind Human Error: Cognitive Systems, Computers and Hindsight

Abstract

This report goes beyond a characterization of human error as a causal factor of accidents. It discusses the larger system within which practitioners operate and show how "blunt end" factors such as organizational processes and technology design impact the cognition and behavior of those at the "sharp end." Examples from various domains are used to illustrate deficiencies in computerized devices, which can lead to breakdowns in interaction. such as mode error. Reasons are presented for why these deficiencies as "latent failures" can exist without giving rise to accidents. Also discussed is the role of outcome knowledge in the attribution of error.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1994
Accession Number
ADA492127

Entities

People

  • David D. Woods
  • Leila J. Johannesen
  • Nadine B. Sarter
  • Richard I. Cook

Organizations

  • University of Dayton Research Institute

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • Biomedical
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accidents
  • Anesthesia
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Cognition
  • Cognitive Science
  • Cognitive Systems Engineering
  • Computer Programming
  • Health Services
  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Information Processing
  • Information Systems
  • Medical Personnel
  • Personnel Management
  • Psychology
  • Systems Engineering
  • Warning Systems

Readers

  • Aviation Safety Risk Assessment.
  • Educational Psychology
  • Team-Based Human-Centered Cognitive Task Decision Making and Information Performance.