Sample interview questions: Can you discuss a time when you used human factors principles to optimize the design of a nuclear power plant control room?
Sample answer:
Sure, here is a detailed discussion about a time I used human factors principles to optimize the design of a nuclear power plant control room:
In my previous role as a Human Factors Psychologist at a nuclear power plant, I was tasked with optimizing the design of the control room to enhance safety and efficiency. Here’s how I approached the project:
- Task Analysis:
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Conducted extensive task analysis to identify the critical tasks performed by operators, their sequence, and the information required for successful task completion.
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Cognitive Walkthrough:
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Performed cognitive walkthroughs with experienced operators to evaluate the control room design from their perspective, identifying potential usability issues and cognitive challenges.
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Mental Model Development:
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Developed mental models of operators’ understanding of the plant systems and processes to ensure that the control room design aligns with their expectations and mental representations.
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Workload Assessment:
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Evaluated the mental workload associated with different tasks and scenarios using workload assessment methods like the NASA Task Load Index (TLX) to identify potential areas of overload or underload.
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Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Design:
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Applied HCI principles to improve the design of control panels, displays, and interfaces, ensuring that they are intuitive, easy to read, and minimize the risk of errors.
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Situational Awareness Enhancemen… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/7_0_18/Human%20Factors%20Psychologist