Citation

Nickles GM, Melloy BJ, Gramopadhye AK. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 2003; 32(5): 331-339.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Three levels of training, intended to improve visual search proficiency during inspection by promoting systematic search, are investigated. The three levels of training are verbal instruction on systematic search, verbal instruction with a static diagram of a systematic search, and verbal instruction and a diagram with practice using a dynamic visual stimulus tracing a systematic search. The levels are compared using both performance and process measures in order to identify the least complex means of improving search behavior. While all the training levels improved visual search proficiency, none did so more than any other. Evidence suggests that the levels were not differentiated due to the search task employed--a task that inherently lent itself to systematic search. Thus the least complex level is preferred for this task and those with similar attributes.Relevance to industryHuman visual inspection is necessary to many industrial processes. Verbal instructions on how to perform a systematic search can be an effective method of training to lower inspection time under the conditions used in this study.