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Human Factors Issues in Responsible Computer Consumption

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Abstract

Energy is wasted when individuals do not practise responsible computer consumption behaviour (RCCB) such as turning off idling computers or using power-management tools. This study aims to determine the key human factors and ergonomics (HFE) issues influencing RCCB so as to provide recommendations to change users’ behaviour. A model was developed based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour and HFE literature. A questionnaire was designed, tested and finalised, and samples were collected and analysed. The findings reveal significant HFE factors such as self-efficacy, positive attitudes, collectivist and personal benefits, self-identity and habit. Recommendations include a steeper stepwise electricity tariff; government social messages such as saving money, prolonging computer life, making a difference and attaining collective benefits; and education in calculating the monetary savings from energy saved.

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Acknowledgement

The authors thank the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, for funding this research under the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS)

(Ref: FRGS/1/2012/SS05/MUSM/02/2). The authors also thank the respondents who participated in this research.

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Yeow, P.H.P., Loo, W.H., Eze, U.C. (2018). Human Factors Issues in Responsible Computer Consumption. In: Thatcher, A., Yeow, P. (eds) Ergonomics and Human Factors for a Sustainable Future. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-8072-2_4

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