Validating task analysis for error identification: reliability and validity of a human error prediction technique
- 15 July 2005
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Taylor & Francis in Ergonomics
- Vol. 48 (9) , 1097-1113
Abstract
This paper reports on the theoretical and empirical developments for an error prediction methodology called task analysis for error identification (TAFEI). Other researchers have noted the need for theoretically driven approaches that are able to provide practical utility in error prediction. Theoretical developments include the concept of ‘rewritable routines’, which describe the loop between cognitive processing, action and devices states. This has been proposed as a way of unifying ideas from systems theory and cognitive psychology. The empirical research shows that TAFEI is superior to heuristic methods, which supports the idea that structured methods assist in error prediction. The validation study shows that TAFEI reaches acceptable levels in terms of test – retest reliability and concurrent validity. It is believed that the method has reached a level of maturity after 10 years of development work. This is demonstrated by the many uses to which the method has been put, including that of a design tool.Keywords
This publication has 20 references indexed in Scilit:
- Giving ergonomics away? The application of ergonomics methods by novicesApplied Ergonomics, 2003
- Error by design: methods for predicting device usabilityDesign Studies, 2002
- A Case Study of On-Screen Prototypes and Usability Evaluation of Electronic Timers and Food Menu SystemsInternational Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, 2001
- Error mode predictionErgonomics, 1999
- Learning to predict human error: issues of acceptability, reliability and validityErgonomics, 1998
- Human error identification techniques applied to public technology: predictions compared with observed useApplied Ergonomics, 1996
- A systems approach to human error identificationSafety Science, 1996
- Task analysis for error identification: a methodology for designing error-tolerant consumer productsErgonomics, 1994
- Can humans think? The Ergonomics Society Lecture 1991Ergonomics, 1991
- The Theory of Open Systems in Physics and BiologyScience, 1950