Study Guide
COURSES
The basic knowledge exam will include test items from the following courses:
- ME 409 - Human Factors Engineering
- PSYC 325/525 - Cognitive Psychology
- PSYC 444 - Sensation and Perception
- PSYC 446 - Engineering Psychology
- PSYC 550 - Training and Skill Acquisition
- PSYC 552 - Ergonomics and Biomechanics
- PSYC 561 - Human Factors Design
- PSYC 562 - Advanced Human Factors
FORMAT
Item formats will vary.
- Multiple choice
- Fill-in-the-blank
- Short answer
- Essay answers
All are possible. Expect a mix of item types.
STUDYING
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Unfortunately, no study guide will ever be complete. This guide is no exception. The challenge is to provide directions that promote the acquisition of knowledge and understanding.
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A common concern among faculty members is that study guides will limit students’ studying rather than expand it. The intent of the comprehensive exam is to ensure students have, as the degree suggests, mastered the basics of the discipline.
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In preparation for the exam, review each course and identify the broad topic areas.
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For example, work-related musculoskeletal disorders would be a broad topic in Ergonomics and Biomechanics. From these broad areas, list the relative sub-components.
- Within the broad area of mental workload, for example, you could list the various measurement methods with their relative strengths and weaknesses. Address each of the major topics in the various classes in the same way.
- Course syllabi and exams are excellent ways of identifying the broad topic areas. Contrast the topics on the syllabi and exams with the Table of Contents in the textbook. It is reasonable to expect that the time spent discussing a topic in class would be reflected in the number of items asked about it.
- Studying for comprehensive exams can be a challenging process. You may want to study in groups or work with other students via email. Independent of how you study, you are ultimately responsible for your performance. Take deliberate steps to ensure that you master the material.
EXAM GRADING
- The faculty members or their appointees will grade the exam.
- Your grades for each course will be averaged to produce a final grade.
- You must pass the exam with a minimum of 70% overall average before proceeding to the applied portion.