CPE Human Factors & Behavioral Science 3

Question 1

Naturalistic Decision Making (NDM) research by Klein suggests that experienced decision makers in field settings primarily use which strategy?

Accepted Answer

Recognition-primed decision making

Answer

Klein's Recognition-Primed Decision (RPD) model shows experts rapidly match situations to familiar patterns and mentally simulate the first plausible action rather than comparing alternatives.

Question 2

In human reliability analysis, the Technique for Human Error Rate Prediction (THERP) uses which primary data source?

Accepted Answer

Human Performance Reliability Database (HPRD) from nuclear industry studies

Answer

THERP relies primarily on the HPRD compiled from nuclear power plant operations to derive nominal human error probabilities for task elements.

Question 3

A worker consistently performs a task correctly under low load but makes errors when multitasking. This best illustrates which concept?

Accepted Answer

All of the above can contribute

Answer

Dual-task performance degradation can stem from resource competition (Wickens' Multiple Resource Theory), structural bottlenecks (at response selection), and perceptual narrowing under stress.

Question 4

The 'Hawthorne Effect' in ergonomics research is a concern because it refers to:

Accepted Answer

Behavior changes in participants who know they are being observed

Answer

The Hawthorne Effect is the tendency for people to modify their behavior when they know they are being studied, which can confound research results.

Question 5

Which of the following is the BEST example of an 'ecological interface design' principle?

Accepted Answer

Mapping system constraints directly onto visual affordances so operators can perceive system state without calculation

Answer

Ecological Interface Design (EID) maps work domain constraints onto display geometry so that control laws become visible as perceptual invariants, reducing cognitive load.

(CPE) Certified Professional Ergonomist Practice Test

(CPE) Certified Professional Ergonomist Practice Test

CPE Human Factors & Behavioral Science 3