Implementation and evaluation of a multi-course case study for framing laboratory exercises

This paper describes the implementation and evaluation of a set of design-oriented laboratory exercises for two undergraduate Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) courses, which draw from a case study model. The case material, based on the automotive manufacturing industry, includes the description of the overall manufacturing system, seven multi-period laboratories across the two courses, and computer modules intended to support the design and analysis activities in the laboratories. Over the duration of the project, the courses have been taught using the modified laboratories. Evaluations, including student surveys, grade comparisons, and comparison of test question answers, have been conducted to compare student performance before and after the implementation of the proposed laboratories. Results from completed evaluations are discussed.