Ergonomics 1 How the Body Does it Work _ How the Mind Works.pdf

REPORT COLLABORATION FOR
ERGONOMICS OF CEIT-06-
501A AND CEIT-06-501P
TOPIC: 3.3 - 4.3
CEIT-06-501A
Cabrera, Jacob Andro
Duka, Kenneth Clarke
Marmol, John Carlos
Merida, Maira
Pacanza, Angelo O.
CEIT-06-501P
Carreon, Don Mark
Galang, Mark Patrick
Paragoya, Kody
Regidor, Rizaldy

THE
METABOLIC
SYSTEM
HOW THE BODY DOES ITS WORK

the conversion of the energy in food to
energy available to run cellular processes;
the conversion of food to building blocks
for proteins, lipids, nucleic acids , and some
carbohydrates;
and the elimination of metabolic waste
Metabolism
is the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions
in organism. The three main functions of
metabolism are:

HOMEOSTASIS
to characterize the remarkable internal stability of human
body functions. The core temperature, fluid volume, blood
pH, and many other functions of the body stay nearly the
same even under extremes of our natural environment.
Walter Cannon

I=M=H+W+S
where M is the metabolic energy generated, which is
divided into the heat H that must be dispelled to the
outside, the work W, and the change in energy
storage S in the body. (A gain in S is counted as
positive, a loss as negative.)
METABOLISM
I = H + W
ONLY ABOUT 5 PERCENT OR LESS
OF THE ENERGY INPUT IS
CONVERTED INTO “WORK”
WORK
MUSCLE IS ABLE TO CONVERT (IN ITS
MITOCHONDRIA) CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO
PHYSICAL WORK OR ENERGY.
THE ABILITY TO MAINTAIN THE INTERNAL
EQUILIBRIUM OF THE BODY IS LARGELY
DEPENDENT ON THE CIRCULATORY AND
RESPIRATORY FUNCTIONS THAT SERVE
THE MUSCLE INVOLVED

ENERGY
TRANSFORMATION IN
THE HUMAN BODY

EXERGONIC OR EXOTHERMIC
BREAKAGE OF MOLECULAR BOND
ENDERGONIC OR ENDOTHERMIC
FORMATION OF BOND
ENERGY IS SUPPLIED TO THE BODY IN FOOD OR DRINK.

DIGESTION AND
ABSORPTION
THE ENERGY PATHWAYS
INGESTION
STOMACH
ACTION
ASSIMILATION

FOODSTUFFS
CARBOHYDRATE FAT
FAT STORAGE
PROTEIN
carbon (C), oxygen (O), and hydrogen (H)
watered carbon
monosaccharide glucose (CsH,20,)
Glucose, the primary (but not the
largest) source of energy
glycogen
carrier of vitamins A, D, E, and K in
food
major energy source for the body
trygliceride
fat is usually transported for storage
to adipose tissue, from where it will
be used when needed
Fat also cushions vital organs
A layer of fat under the skin insulates
the body against heat transfer
third major food component
It consists of chains of amino acids
most amino acids become enzyme
others become hemoglobin,
hormones
antibodies
collagen

STORED
ENERGY ENERGY
RELEASED
body fat accounts for most of the stored
energy reserves
glucose and glycogen are the primary and
first-used sources of energy
12 to 20 percent in men (NORMAL)
15 percent (ATHLETE)
25 percent (OBESE)
20 to 30 percent in women (NORMAL)
20 percent (ATHLETE)
33 percent (OBESE)
The energy in glycogen is more easily
liberated, while the energy in glucose is
most easily and quickly released
catabolism
accomplished in the human body by
aerobic metabolism
C6H1206+6 O2= 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + Energy.,

ENERGY USE
ATP + H2O — ADP + energy (output)
ADP + CP + energy (input) ~ ATP + H2O
MUSCULAR
WORK
Muscular work involves the contraction of
muscles, a process which requires energy. This
energy is obtained through the breakdown of
energy-rich glucose or fat
The first few seconds
The first 10 seconds
After 10 seconds
After minutes and
longer

AEROBIC ANEAROBIC
aerobic metabolism generates
more ATP and relies on oxygen
anaerobic metabolism does not
need oxygen but only creates two
ATP molecules per glucose molecule

ENERGY USE AND
BODY WEIGHT
If the input exceeds the output, storage (body fat and hence, weight) is
increased
weight decreases if the input is less than the output
Approximately 7,000 to 8,000 kcal make a difference of | kilogram in body
weight
Human body energy appears to regulated by such a set-point mechanism
Set points can be adjusted voluntarily

▪ Capability to perform physical
work

work
o Gender & body

work
o Gender & body
o Age

work
o Gender & body
o Age
o Size

work
o Gender & body
o Age
o Size
o Health

work
o Environment

work
o Environment
o Motivation

▪Known amount of work
▪Bicycle ergometer/treadmill

▪Known amount of work
▪Bicycle ergometer/treadmill
▪Work done -> reaction of the
individual

▪Direct Calorimetry
oHeat produced by the body

oMost accurate

oMost accurate
oRarely used: complexity & expense

▪Indirect Calorimetry
oPractical/commonly used

oConsumption of oxygen

oProduction of carbon dioxide

oProduction of carbon dioxide
oRespiratory Exchange Ratio

❑RQ ≈ 0.7 to 0.85

❑RQ ≈ 0.7 to 0.85
❖fats as an energy source

❑RQ ≈ 0.7 to 0.85
❖rest and light to moderate activities

❑RQ ≈ 0.7 to 0.85
❖rest and light to moderate activities
❑RQ ≈ 0.85 to 1.0

❑RQ ≈ 0.85 to 1.0
❖mix of carbohydrate and fat metabolism

❑RQ ≈ 0.85 to 1.0
❖moderate to high-intensity aerobic
activities

❑RQ ≈ 0.85 to 1.0
❖moderate to high-intensity aerobic
activities
❑RQ ≈ 1.0

❑RQ ≈ 1.0
❖carbohydrates as an energy source

❑RQ ≈ 1.0
❖carbohydrates as an energy source
❖high-intensity activities

▪Physiological indicator - work intensity

oResting Heart Rate

oResting Heart Rate
❑At rest

oResting Heart Rate
❑At rest
❑60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm) for
adults

oLow-Intensity Zone (50-60% of Maximum Heart
Rate)

oLow-Intensity Zone (50-60% of Maximum Heart
Rate)
❑Walking slowly or sitting at a desk

oModerate-Intensity Zone (60-70% of Maximum
Heart Rate)
❑General office work

oAerobic Training Zone (70-85% of Maximum
Heart Rate)
❑Jogging, cycling at a moderate pace, or brisk
swimming

oAnaerobic Threshold (85-90% of Maximum
Heart Rate)
❑Sprinting, high-intensity interval training
(HIIT), or heavy lifting

oMaximum Heart Rate (MHR)
❑All-out sprints and maximal effort exercises

▪Human sense - work done
oThe Borg General (CR-10) Scale

oThe 1960 Borg RPE Scale (Modified 1985)

C H A P T E R 2 : H O W T H E B O D Y D O E S I T S W O R K
Energy
Requirements At
Work

B A S A L R E S T I N G W O R K
Basal Metabolism
A minimal amount of energy is needed to keep the
body functioning, even if no activities are done at all.
This basal metabolism is usually measured on a
person who has fasted for 12 hours and has restricted
her or his protein intake for at least two days, with
complete physical rest in a neutral ambient
temperature.

Resting Metabolism
The highly controlled conditions under which basal metabolism
is measured are rather difficult to accomplish for practical
applications. Therefore, one usually simply measures the
resting metabolism before the working day, with the subject as
well at rest as possible. Depending on the given conditions,
resting metabolism is 10 to 15 percent higher than basal
metabolism.
R E S T I N G
B A S A L W O R K

Work Metabolism
The increase in metabolism from resting to working is called
work metabolism. This increase above the resting level
represents the amount of energy needed to perform the
work.
W O R K
B A S A L R E S T I N G

Figure 2.7 - Scheme of energy
liberation, energy expenditures, and
heart rate at steady-state work.

Measurement during
steady state
50%
If the workload stays below about 50 percent of the worker's
maximal oxygen uptake, then oxygen consumption, heart rate,
and cardiac output can achieve and stay on the required supply
level. This condition of stabilized functions at work is called the
steady state.

Fatigue

When energetic work demands surpass half of max
oxygen uptake, anaerobic processes take over,
causing potassium and lactic acid buildup, leading to
muscle fatigue
When effort exceeds 15% of maximal contraction,
blood flow decreases despite higher blood pressure.
This leads to potassium buildup, sodium depletion,
and phosphate accumulation, disrupting nerve-
muscle communication, signaling fatigue.
Fatigue
is operationally defined as a “reduced muscular ability to continue an existing effort.”

1
2
3
Allow short bursts
of dynamic work,
and avoid long
periods of static
effort.
Keep energetic
work and
muscle
demands low.
Encourage taking
many short rest
pauses; this is
better than taking
a few long breaks.
Avoiding Fatigue

Figure 2-8. Metabolic
reactions to the attempt of
doing work that exceeds
one’s capacity even with
interspersed rest periods.

TABLE 2-2. Energy Consumption (to be
Added to Basal Metabolism) at Various
Activities
TABLE 2-3. Total Energy Cost Per Day in
Various Jobs and Professions

Defining the “heaviness” of work.
LIGHT
WORK
MEDIUM
WORK
HEAVY
WORK
VERY HEAVY
WORK
EXTREMELY HEAVY
WORK

WHAT YOUR BODY DOES
how and why?
WHAT YOUR BODY DOES
how and why?

RUMBLINGSTOMACH
stoMACH
RUMBLING

snoring
snoring
snoring
snoring

Ramp,
Stair,
Ladder

The selection of ramps, stairs, or ladders
The figure indicates resulting recommendations,
depending on the angle of ascent.

CONTENTS
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
TRADITION AND
ECOLOGICAL CONCEPTS
NERVOUS SYSTEM
ENHANCING
PERFORMANCE

“Of course, the brain is a machine and a computer...But
our mental processes which constitute our being and life,
are not just abstract and mechanical but personal, as well
- and as such, involve not just classifying and categorizing,
but continual judging and feeling also. If this is missing, we
become computer-like...”
-Oliver Sacks

in system concept of engineering psychology,
human is considered a receptor, processor
and generator of information or energy
in system concept of engineering psychology,
human is considered a receptor, processor
and generator of information or energy

TRADITIONAL
AND
ECOLOGICAL
CONCEPTS
TRADITIONAL
AND
ECOLOGICAL
CONCEPTS

TRADITIONAL
CONCEPT
TRADITIONAL
CONCEPT
In the traditional
psychological model, human
perception, cognition, and
action are viewed as a
sequential system.
This model assumes that input
is sensed, processed, and
output follows in a linear
fashion.
Critics argue that it does not
adequately capture the complexity
of human behavior and cognition.
Despite its criticisms, a suitable
replacement model has not yet
been widely accepted, leaving the
traditional model as the dominant
framework in psychology and
information processing.

ECOLOGICAL
CONCEPT
ECOLOGICAL
CONCEPT
Ecological psychologists focus
on simultaneous interactions.
Suggests a need for
fundamentally new models of
information, cognition, and
performance assessment.
Affordance: Environment property
with user-specific value.
Perception: The process of sensing
and interpreting information from the
environment, including information
about affordances.
Information about affordances can be
perceived directly and simultaneously.

The nervous system is a complex network that plays a crucial role in
controlling and coordinating various functions of the human body.
We will explore the organization of the nervous system, its
components, their functions, and the role of sensors. Additionally,
we'll discuss common nervous system responses.
The nervous system's sensors are vital components that allow us to
perceive and interact with the world around us, while common
nervous system responses illustrate its dynamic role in our daily lives
Understanding the diverse types of sensors and the physiological
responses they can elicit enhances our comprehension of how our
bodies function and adapt to different situations
NERVOUS SYSTEM
NERVOUS SYSTEM

The nervous system is divided into two main
parts:
Central Nervous System (CNS)
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal
cord, while the PNS includes nerves and
ganglia outside of the CNS.
a.
b.

The Brain:
The brain is the control center of the nervous system.
It processes sensory information, initiates responses,
and stores and retrieves memories.
The Spinal Cord:
The spinal cord is a long, cylindrical structure that
runs from the base of the brain to the lower back.
It serves as a communication pathway between the
brain and the rest of the body.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Frontal Lobes:
Parietal Lobes
Temporal Lobes
Occipital Lobes
Cerebrum:
The cerebrum is the largest and most prominent
part of the brain. It is divided into two
hemispheres (left and right) and is responsible
for higher cognitive functions, including:
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Cerebellum
Located at the back of the brain, beneath the
cerebrum, the cerebellum is responsible for
coordinating voluntary movements, balance,
and posture.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Medulla Oblongata: Controls essential functions like
breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Pons: Acts as a bridge connecting different parts of
the brain and helps regulate breathing and other
functions.
Midbrain (Mesencephalon): Involved in sensory and
motor functions and plays a role in the sleep-wake
cycle.
Brainstem:
The brainstem is the lower part of the brain that connects
it to the spinal cord. It consists of three main parts:
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Thalamus
Hypothalamus
Diencephalon:
This region includes the thalamus and
hypothalamus:
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Limbic System:
A group of structures deep within the
brain that plays a role in emotions,
memory, and motivation. Key components
include the amygdala and hippocampus.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Basal Ganglia:
A set of structures involved in motor
control and coordination, as well as
procedural learning, motivation, and
emotion.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Cerebral Ventricles:
Fluid-filled spaces within the brain that
produce and circulate cerebrospinal fluid,
which provides cushioning and support to
the brain.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

White Matter and Gray Matter:
The brain consists of both white matter
(comprising nerve fibers and myelin) and
gray matter (containing cell bodies of
neurons). White matter connects different
regions of the brain, while gray matter is
responsible for information processing.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

Meninges:
The brain is protected by three layers of
membranes called the meninges, which
provide physical support and help cushion
the brain.
Central Nervous
System (CNS)
Central Nervous
System (CNS)

The PNS connects the CNS to the limbs and organs.
Divided into two major components:
Somatic Nervous System:
Controls voluntary muscle movements.
Responsible for sensory perception.
Autonomic Nervous System:
Regulates involuntary bodily functions like heart
rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.
a.
a.
Peripheral Nervous
System (PNS)
Peripheral Nervous
System (PNS)

Sympathetic Nervous System:
Activates the "fight or flight"
response.
Increases heart rate, dilates pupils,
and redirects blood flow.
Parasympathetic Nervous System:
Promotes the "rest and digest" state.
Slows heart rate, constricts pupils,
and enhances digestion.
a.
a.
ANS further divided into
two branches:
ANS further divided into
two branches:

Neurons are the functional units of
the nervous system.
Three main parts of a neuron:
Cell Body (Soma): Contains the
nucleus and essential cellular
structures.
Dendrites: Receive signals
from other neurons.
Axon: Carries signals away
from the cell body.
a.
b.
c.
Neurons: The
Building Blocks
Neurons: The
Building Blocks

Neurons communicate at specialized
junctions called synapses.
Neurotransmitters are chemical
messengers that transmit signals across
synapses.
This process is fundamental for
information transfer in the nervous
system.
Synapses and
Neurotransmitters
Synapses and
Neurotransmitters

Transduction:
When a sensory receptor detects a
stimulus, it undergoes transduction,
the process of converting the stimulus
into electrical signals (action
potentials) that can be transmitted to
the nervous system.
Sensory Pathways:
Once sensory information is
transduced, it travels along specific
sensory pathways to the central
nervous system (CNS).
These pathways relay information to
the appropriate brain regions for
processing and interpretation.

Sensors, also known as sensory receptors, are specialized
cells or structures distributed throughout the body. They are
responsible for detecting various types of stimuli, allowing us
to perceive and interact with our environment.
Sensors in the
Nervous System
Sensors in the
Nervous System

Found in the skin, mucous membranes, and deep tissues.
Respond to changes in temperature, allowing the body to
detect hot and cold environments.
Essential for temperature regulation and the perception of
thermal stimuli.
Located in the skin, muscles, tendons, and internal organs.
Sensitive to mechanical forces such as pressure, touch,
vibration, and stretch.
Provide information about tactile sensations, body position, and
sound vibrations in the ear.
Specialized pain receptors distributed throughout the body.
Triggered by noxious stimuli, including extreme temperatures,
mechanical damage, or chemicals.
Convey the sensation of pain, alerting the body to potential
harm or injury.
Thermoreceptors:
Mechanoreceptors:
Nociceptors:
Types of Sensors:
Types of Sensors:

Found in the retina of the eye.
Detect light and convert it into electrical signals that
the brain interprets as visual information.
Essential for vision, color perception, and adapting to
changes in light intensity.
Present in taste buds on the tongue and olfactory
epithelium in the nose.
Detect chemical substances in the environment, such
as those responsible for taste and smell.
Enable us to experience and differentiate various
tastes and odors.
Photoreceptors:
Chemoreceptors:
Types of Sensors:
Types of Sensors:

The nervous system is responsible for a range of
physiological responses that we encounter in our daily
lives. These responses often reflect the dynamic
interactions between our nervous system and external
or internal stimuli.
Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
Often experienced in situations of excitement,
nervousness, or anticipation.
The brain's response to stress or strong
emotions triggers changes in digestive
processes, leading to the sensation of
"butterflies."
Butterflies in the Stomach:

Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
Blushing occurs when blood vessels in the
skin dilate, causing the skin to turn red.
It can be a response to embarrassment,
shyness, or strong emotions.
The autonomic nervous system plays a role
in regulating blood flow to the skin.
Blushing:

Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
The sensation of a lump in the throat can
result from emotional stress, anxiety, or
intense emotions.
This feeling is due to muscle tension and
changes in the throat area controlled by the
autonomic nervous system.
Lump in the Throat:

Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the
diaphragm muscle.
They often occur spontaneously and can
result from irritation of the phrenic nerves,
which are part of the autonomic nervous
system
Hiccups:

Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
Goosebumps, or piloerection, occur when
small muscles at the base of hair follicles
contract, causing hairs to stand on end.
This response is a vestige of our
evolutionary ancestors and can be triggered
by cold temperatures or strong emotions.
Goose Bumps:

Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
The startle reflex is an automatic response
to a sudden, unexpected stimulus.
It involves a rapid contraction of muscles
and a sudden movement, often seen when
something surprises or startles us.
Head Jerk (Startle Reflex):

Common Nervous
System Responses
Common Nervous
System Responses
Hypnic jerks are sudden muscle contractions
that occur as you are falling asleep.
They are thought to be a normal part of the
transition from wakefulness to sleep and
may result from changes in the autonomic
nervous system.
Bedtime Twitch (Hypnic Jerk):

THE SIGNAL LOOP
THE SIGNAL LOOP
represents the dynamic interaction between
humans and machines in a system, and the
design of this loop is a key focus to optimize
human performance, safety, and user
experience in various engineering applications.

Distal Stimuli:
These are the real-world objects or events that
exist in the external environment. They can be
physical objects, sounds, smells, tastes, or any
other type of sensory information.
Proximal Stimuli:
patterns of energy that impinge upon our sensory
receptors (e.g., the retina in the case of vision,
the eardrum in the case of hearing). These
proximal stimuli are a result of the interaction
between the distal stimuli and our sensory organs.
They are the sensory information that our bodies
receive directly.
Perception:
The brain processes these proximal stimuli and
interprets them to form our conscious
perception of the distal stimuli. In other words,
we perceive the apple on the tree, the car
making a noise, or the smell of the pie in our
mind, even though we are not directly in
contact with these objects or events.

Artificial Neural Network
Artificial Neural Network
Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are
computing models inspired by the brain's
structure. They consist of layers of
interconnected nodes, process data through
weighted connections and activation functions,
and are used for tasks like image recognition
and language processing. ANNs learn from
data during training by adjusting connection
weights and are a fundamental part of modern
machine learning and AI.

Weights and Connections:
Neurons have weighted
connections that adapt
during training.
Activation Functions:
Neurons use activation
functions to introduce
non-linearity.
Feedforward:
Data flows through
layers for predictions.
Backpropagation:
Error is propagated
backward for weight
adjustments.
Training:
ANNs learn from data
through supervised
training.
Applications:
Used in image
recognition, language
processing, and more.

ERGONOMIC USES OF NERVOUS SIGNALS
ERGONOMIC USES OF NERVOUS SIGNALS
The ergonomic uses of nervous signals
encompasses a wide range of applications,
from designing comfortable and efficient
workspaces to developing advanced
technologies. Understanding how the nervous
system functions is fundamental to improving
product design of products, tools, and
environment to enhance human well-being and
performance.

Muscle Control
Nervous signals are responsible for conrtrolling
the contraction and relaxation of muscles. This
is essential for maintaining good posture,
balance and movement. Ergonomics often
focuses on optimizing the use of muscles to
prevent strain and injury.
Pain Perception
Nervous signals are responsilble for
transmitting pain signals from injured areas to
the brain. This is important for ergonomic
designs such as ensuring that tools and
equipment are not causing excessive pain or
discomfort during use

Sensory Feedback
Nervous signals provide sensory feedback,
allowing us to feel pressure, temperature, and
touch. Ergonomically designed products take
this into account to ensure that users can
comfortably interact with them.
Biomechanics
Understancing nervous signals helps in
designing products and tools that align with the
body’s natural biomechanics. For example,
ergonomic chairs are designed to support the
spine's natural curvature, which helps prevent
back pain and discomfort.

Fatigue Management
Understanding how nervous signals contribute
to fatigue can help design work environment
and tasks that minimize mental and physical
exhaustion.
Human-Machine Interfaces
Nervous signal-based interfaces like brain-
computer interfaces, have applications in
ergonomics. BCI can allow individuals with
disabilities to control computers and devices
through their thoughts, making it easier for
them to interact with technology

RESPONDING TO STIMULI
RESPONDING TO STIMULI

Reaction Time
Reaction Time
Approximate Minimal Reaction Time
Electric Shock: 130 ms
Touch and Sound: 140 ms
Sight and Temperature: 180 ms
Smell: 300 ms
Taste: 500 ms
Pain: 700 ms

Time Delays
Time Delays
Estimated Time Delay
At receptor: 1 to 38 ms
Along the afferent path: 2 to 100 ms

Simple and Choice
Reaction Time
Simple and Choice
Reaction Time
Simple Reaction Time
If a person knows that a particular stimulus will
occur, is prepared for it, and knows how to react
to it.

Simple and Choice
Reaction Time
Simple and Choice
Reaction Time
Choice Reaction Time
If one stimulus out of several possible stimulus
occurs, or if the person has to choose among
several possible reactions.

Motion time depends on the distance covered and
on the precision required.
Motion Time
Motion Time

Response Time
Response Time
It is the total amount of time it takes to respond to
a request or service.

The assessment of a workload, whether
psychological or physical, commonly relies on the
"resource construct" that there is a given quantity
capability and attitude availability by the
demanded job.
Mental Workload
Mental Workload

There are 3 measures of task performance:
1.) Primary-task performance
2.) Secondary-task performance
3.) Physiological Events
Measuring Workload
Measuring Workload

Different measures of workload:
1.) People are different
2.) Use the task performance itself
3.) Secondary tasks
4.) Physiological measures
5.) Subjective assessment
6.) Widely used measures
Measures of Workload
Measures of Workload

Stress and Anxiety are core
concepts of psychopathology
Stress on the
Individual and Crews
Stress on the
Individual and Crews

1.) Job Demands
2.) Person's Capability
3.) Person's Attitude
Demand, Capability,
and Attitude
Demand, Capability,
and Attitude

Opposite of variety and is
produced by environment in
which either there is no change or
else changes occur in repetitive
and highly predictable fashion.
Monotony
Monotony

Psychologist now use the term
"mental fatigue" to describe
disinclination to continue a task
due to psychological factors.
Mental Fatigue
Mental Fatigue

Understanding people's
capabilities and developing job
demands and conditions that are
matched to those capabilities is
the main focus of the ergonomist.
Strain Experienced by
Individual
Strain Experienced by
Individual

Stress Management is a popular
term that has been used by
Psychologist. Management implies
that stress is unavoidable.
Occupational Health
Psychology
Occupational Health
Psychology
Pursuit of Happiness
Pursuit of Happiness

Learning, knowledge,
communication, creativity, and
skill, as well as performance under
stress is important in jobs.
Enhancing Performances
Enhancing Performances

1.) Participants Vs. Loafers
2.) Brainstorming
3.) Group Decisions
Improving Teamwork
Improving Teamwork

Enhancing
performance
Reporter:
Merida, Maira V.

Enhancing
performance
There is generally good reason to achieve and
perform at one’s best. Learning, knowledge, com-
munication, creativity, concentration, and skill, as
well as performance under stress are important on
the job or in sports; the military is particularly
interested in attaining fearlessness, cunning,
courage, one-shot effectiveness, reversal of fatigue,
and nighttime fighting capabilities.

Importance of Achieving
Peak Performance
The passage begins by highlighting the significance of performing
at one's best in different aspects of life, including learning,
knowledge, communication, creativity, concentration, and skill. It
also mentions the importance of performing well under stressful
conditions, particularly in contexts like the military, where
attributes such as fearlessness, cunning, courage, one-shot
effectiveness, reversal of fatigue, and nighttime fighting
capabilities are highly valued.

Role of Training
The passage suggests that training plays a crucial role in
helping individuals attain peak performance. It implies
that techniques and strategies have been developed to
enhance human performance, and these methods have
garnered significant attention, especially in the popular
media.

Entrepreneurial Promotion
of Techniques
Many entrepreneurs, especially those outside academia, are
mentioned as advocates of various techniques aimed at improving
performance. These techniques encompass focusing on specific
goals, speeding up the learning process, enhancing motor skills,
changing mental states, reducing stress, increasing social
influence, fostering group cohesion, and even engaging in
parapsychological activities like "remote viewing."

Examples of Techniques
Biofeedback: A method for acquiring information about internal
physiological processes and learning to control them.
Hemispheric Synchronization/Split-Brain Learning: Techniques
based on the assumption that different brain hemispheres are
responsible for different activities, with efforts to synchronize or
optimize their functioning.
Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP): Procedures for influencing
another person's thoughts, feelings, and behavior through language
and communication.
The passage provides examples of the techniques mentioned earlier

Examples of Techniques
Mind Reading: This term is introduced without specific details, but it suggests
an attempt to understand or predict the thoughts and intentions of others.
Psychokinetic Control: The passage briefly mentions non-tactile control of
devices through psychokinesis, which involves manipulating objects with the
mind.
Challenges with Scientific Proof: The passage points out that some of these
techniques are promoted as easy to use, like watching a videotape or listening
to subliminal information during sleep. However, the reported successes, while
often surprising, are primarily based on personal experiences and testimonials
rather than scientifically accepted evidence.
The passage provides examples of the techniques mentioned earlier

National Research Council
Investigation
Due to the lack of scientifically acceptable proof for many of these
techniques, the National Research Council established a
committee to investigate some of them and assess their likelihood
of success. The results of this committee's work have been
reported by researchers such as Druckman and Swets (1988),
Swets and Bjork (1990), and Druckman and Bjork (1991). The
passage suggests that the following information relies on their
statements and findings.

GENERAL FINDINGS
Unproven or Questionable Theoretical Bases:
Theoretical Bases and Unsubstantiated Claims:
Some of the theoretical foundations mentioned by
promoters of performance-enhancing techniques lack
scientific support or are considered questionable. This
suggests that the underlying ideas behind these
techniques may not have been adequately validated.

GENERAL FINDINGS
Lack of Substantiated Results:
Theoretical Bases and Unsubstantiated Claims:
In many cases, the advertised results of these
techniques are not backed by solid evidence. This means
that the claims made about the effectiveness of these
methods are often not substantiated by scientific
research.

Components of Successful Learning: Successful learning is
attributed to various factors, including the quality of
instruction, the amount of time spent practicing and studying,
the motivation of the learner, and how well the training
methods match the demands of the task.
Effectiveness of Superlearning Programs: While some
"superlearning" programs may be effective, they tend to rely
on a combination of the factors mentioned above. However,
there's little or no evidence to suggest that these programs
incorporate effective instructional techniques that diverge
from established research and practice norms.
FACTORS INFLUENCING SUCCESSFUL LEARNING

Limited Assessment Metrics: Many assessments of training
effectiveness typically measure performance during
training or at the end of the training period. However,
these assessments may not accurately predict a person's
performance in the future, which is when it truly matters.
Lack of Research on Future Performance Metrics: There's
a lack of research on how to assess a person's
performance at the time when it is actually required, such
as weeks, months, or years after the training period.
ASSESSMENT OF TRAINING EFFECTIVENESS:

Theoretical Efficacy of Mental Practice: The theory
suggests that mental practice can be effective in
improving motor skills.
Effectiveness of Passive Learning: However, simply
listening to experts or observing expert performance
on videotapes has not been proven to be effective.
This implies that passive forms of mental practice
may not yield significant benefits.
MENTAL PRACTICE AND MOTOR SKILLS ENHANCEMENT

Biofeedback:
Differential Use of Brain Hemispheres:
Uncertain Positive Effects: The passage mentions that the positive effects of
biofeedback on skilled performance are yet to be determined. However, it's
noted that there's compelling evidence for its efficacy in treating specific
somatic (bodily) conditions, such as some forms of tension headaches.
Refutation of Claims: Claims that suggest differential use of the brain
hemispheres can lead to enhanced performance are refuted by the scientific
literature. In other words, there's no solid scientific evidence to support the
idea that using one hemisphere of the brain more than the other leads to
improved performance.

Parapsychological Phenomena:
Lack of Scientific Justification: The passage
concludes by stating that over a 130-year period,
research has not provided any scientific
justification for the existence of parapsychological
phenomena. These phenomena typically involve
supernatural or unexplained abilities, such as ESP
or telekinesis.

SPECIFIC FINDINGS
Subliminal learning
This passage discusses the concept of "subliminal learning"
and the promotion of "subliminal self-improvement" through
audiotapes. It presents specific findings related to the
effectiveness of these subliminal tapes and their impact on
attitudes, confidence, performance, anxiety reduction, and
behavior changes like dieting or quitting smoking. Here's a
breakdown of the key points in this passage:

SPECIFIC FINDINGS
Subliminal Learning and Its Possibility:
Lack of Mysterious Essence:
Subliminal learning refers to the idea that individuals can learn or improve
themselves through information presented at a subconscious level, typically below
the threshold of conscious awareness.
The passage acknowledges that there is some scientific evidence supporting the
possibility of subliminal learning, especially during sleep. This is because stimuli,
such as very brief messages, can be presented to individuals without their
conscious awareness, yet they may still perceive them on some level.
The passage emphasizes that subliminal learning does not involve a mysterious or
supernatural process that invades the unconscious mind and generates knowledge
or confidence during waking hours. It suggests that any effects observed are likely
due to more mundane psychological mechanisms.

SPECIFIC FINDINGS
·Investigation of Subliminal Tapes:
·Subjective Experiences of Users:
Researchers examined the content of subliminal tapes that were promoted for self-
improvement.
Despite manufacturers' claims that these tapes contained "embedded" subliminal messages,
the researchers could not find any such messages using objective methods or by observing
the subjective reactions of the individuals who listened to the tapes.
Some users of the subliminal tapes reported that they were affected in a manner consistent
with the missing subliminal messages, even though the messages could not be objectively
detected.
The passage suggests that these users likely convinced themselves that the messages had
the desired effect, and this self-conviction generated a "self-fulfilling expectancy." In other
words, their belief in the tapes' effectiveness led them to experience the expected changes
in attitude, confidence, or behavior.

TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION
the passage explores the practice of meditation, with a focus on
Transcendental Meditation, and raises questions about the
assessment of its effects. It acknowledges the potential benefits
of meditation but highlights the challenges in evaluating these
effects, especially in scientific research where control groups
may need to have prior meditation experience. It also notes the
limited involvement of Western scientific researchers in the
study of meditation, particularly yoga-related practices.

PERFORMANCE UNDER PRESSURE
This passage discusses the topic of performance under
pressure, particularly in the context of sports. It provides
insights into the relationship between mental health and
athletic performance and explores various techniques and
strategies to improve performance in high-pressure
situations.

MENS SANA IN, CORPORE SANO
Meaning of "Mens Sana in Corpore Sano":
Focus on the Relationship Between Aerobic Fitness and Psychological Well-
Being:
The phrase is explained as meaning "a healthy mind in a healthy body" in English.
It is noted that the original Latin text includes the verb "sit," which indicates the
hope or desire that there should be both a sane mind and a healthy body.
The passage mentions that there has been a growing interest in the connection
between aerobic fitness (physical fitness achieved through activities like cardio
exercise) and mental well-being.
It highlights that anxiety and depression are common emotional disorders that can
significantly impact people's lives.

IMPROVING TEAMWORK
Teamwork in Various Settings:
Participants vs. Loafers:
This passage discusses various aspects of improving teamwork in different contexts, such
as work, sports, and the military. It highlights both the challenges and strategies associated
with enhancing team performance.
Teamwork is essential in situations where people work together, whether in the workplace,
sports teams, or military units.
Teams can vary in terms of their level of coordination, from highly organized teams (e.g.,
airplane pilot and copilot) to poorly organized ones (e.g., academic research teams).
The passage emphasizes that the performance of a team is not simply the sum of individual
efforts. Instead, a team should provide greater resources and capabilities than an individual
working alone.

IMPROVING TEAMWORK
Brainstorming:
Group Decisions:
The passage discusses brainstorming as a commonly used team technique aimed at generating
creative ideas.
It suggests that brainstorming may not always be as effective as previously believed because team
members might experience "blocking," meaning they struggle to produce ideas while others are
talking.
The passage highlights a disappointing finding related to consensus decision making within groups.
It suggests that group decisions can be riskier than individual decisions.
It mentions the Delphi and Nominal Group techniques as methods used to gather and synthesize
individual opinions within a team to arrive at a consensus.
While these techniques are popular, the passage indicates that there is limited reliable research to
determine their effectiveness.
The evidence suggests that these techniques may not consistently improve team performance
compared to freely interacting groups.

‘‘The review of what we know about group
performance is more striking for what is
missing than for what is known” (Druckman
and Bjork 1991, p. 257).

Ergonomics 1 How the Body Does it Work _ How the Mind Works.pdf

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