Taking to the Skies: Developing a Dedicated MSc Course in Aviation Human Factors

Abstract

From flight-crew to cabin-crew, air-traffic controllers to aircraft engineers - the ‘human factor’ is vital to the safe and efficient operation of all aspects of the aviation industry. Over the past three decades a better understanding of Human Factors has resulted in significant safety benefits, forming a cornerstone of every aviation safety management programme. With this in mind, an innovative approach to teaching Ergonomics and Human Factors (E/HF) at Coventry University has created a unique MSc in Aviation Human Factors. From the outset this specialist part-time MSc has been designed to attract a wide range of aviation professionals (e.g. aviation engineers, flight and cabin crew, safety personnel, or air traffic controllers) from civil or military organisations in the UK or overseas. The course therefore provides a niche and bespoke learning experience for its students, and from a user requirements perspective this necessitated a particular pedagogic approach.