Human Factors and Ergonomics in Diversity, Inclusion and Social Justice Research

Abstract

The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Diversity Committee is entering its second year and continuing to explore ways to increase the diversity of the society. Following last year’s panel on “Challenges and Opportunities for Involvement,” we, and others, recognized that human factors and ergonomics (HFE) professionals are equipped and able to advance diversity, inclusion and social justice issues. This panel will bring together researchers to discuss experiences addressing these issues to highlight existing work, spark excitement about conducting new work and share advice. This panel will discuss and share lessons learned in a range of projects, including an HFE approach to studying diversity in academia and applications of user-centered design to address the intersection of technology and bias. Macroergonomics contributes important tools and approaches; the need for collaboration with other disciplines and intersectional thinking will be considered. Finally, venues for scholarship in this area of work will be highlighted.