Human Factors Minute is now available to the public as of March 1st, 2023. Find out more information in our: Announcement Post!

Barry Kirby

Barry Kirby Profile Photo

Managing Director

A human factors practitioner, based in Wales, UK. MD of K Sharp, Fellow of the CIEHF and a bit of a gadget geek.

Oct. 13, 2023

E295 - The Dark Side of Quick Wins

This week on the show, we discuss the potential pitfalls of quick wins and the importance of mastering essential skills in UX research. Don't miss out on this insightful episode! #podcast #UXresearch #quickwins #skills #communityquestions #HFtravelingjobs #researchquestions #recordings #insights

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Sept. 22, 2023

E294 - Designing for Frustration in Games

This week's episode discusses delightful and frustrating UX in video games. We also debate prioritizing intuitive and minimalist UX/UI design, or embracing detailed and comprehensive design in video games. #UX #VideoGames #CommunityQuestions #Research #Podcast

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Sept. 8, 2023

E293 - Neurorights for Brain-Computer Interfaces

This week, we delve into the fascinating topic of how new neurotechnology is challenging the boundaries of mental privacy. We also address community questions on HF traveling jobs, crafting research questions, and the length of time researchers keep their recordings. …

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Sept. 1, 2023

E292 - Twitter, X, and Trust

This week on the show, we discuss The Twitter X dilemma: Trust as a finite resource in UX. We also address community questions on safe artifacts for a portfolio, convincing stakeholders, and conducting impactful discovery research. Tune in for valuable …

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Aug. 25, 2023

E291 - Let's Speculate About Regulations for Commercial Human Spacefl…

This week on the show, we discuss the FAA's launch of a new committee to explore regulations for commercial human spaceflight. We also address community questions on interviewing for Human Factors roles, pursuing Human Factors jobs with a MA degree, …

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Aug. 4, 2023

E290 - Emotional Edifices

This week on the show, we discuss the impact of city design on driving decisions and emotions. We also provide advice on interviewing for Human Factors roles, whether it's a good time to pursue a career as a UX Designer, …

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July 28, 2023

E289 - The Human Factors of the Titan Submersible

This week, we discuss the Titan Disaster, Stockton vs Scott, and the role of "Human Factors" in Failure. We also address questions from the community about working with Product Owners or Project Managers, the job market for UK researchers moving …

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July 14, 2023

E288 - Antisocial Architecture

This episode explores the impact of urban design on social inequality and discusses implementing user research, interview skills, and overcoming failure. Tune in and join the conversation. #urban design #social inequality #user research #interview skills #failure #podcast #community #conversation #designindustry

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June 30, 2023

E287 - Is Apple's Vision Pro the Future of Mixed Reality?

This week on the podcast, we cover "Apple Vision Pro: Here’s everything you need to know." Additionally, we answer questions from the community related to workplace struggles, essential UX stats, and ethical considerations for UX researchers participating in research. #AppleVisionPro …

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June 23, 2023

E286 - What if you could talk to NPCs?

On this week's episode, we dive into NVIDIA's generative AI that allows gamers to engage in conversation with NPCs, and our community's questions about their experience with HF and thoughts on voice agents and user interfaces. Learn about exciting advancements …

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June 2, 2023

E285 - Tech Placebos: All Hype, No Help

On this week's episode, we discuss the dangers of blind trust in enhancement technologies, and the risks that can come with using them. We also take some time to answer questions submitted by our community, including topics like whether product …

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May 26, 2023

E284 - A Chief Trust Officer Could be a User Centered Superpower

This week's podcast episode introduces the role of a chief trust officer and dives into community questions such as how to know if UI/UX design is the right fit, validating leadership ideas, and UX researchers taking on non-UX related work. …

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May 19, 2023

E283 - Surviving Deep Space Missions

This week on the show, we discuss the importance of recreating exact Earth-like conditions for deep space missions to survive, according to scientists. Additionally, we answer community questions about human factors in different countries, switching from senior UX research to …

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April 21, 2023

E281 - Disney's Robots Get Emotional: As If We Needed More Drama at T…

This week on the podcast, we explore relatable robotics at Disney in Once More, With Feeling. Our community questions are also answered, including the exciting UX projects we've worked on and the best methods for finding a mentor. Plus, we …

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April 14, 2023

E280 - Robots will Teach Kids in the Future

In this podcast episode, we discuss an interesting study that suggests preschoolers may prefer learning from a competent robot over an incompetent human. Plus, we tackle some community questions about handling stakeholders who ignore UXR feedback, coping with lost Zoom …

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April 7, 2023

E279 - BCIs Pose a Threat to Mental Privacy

On this episode of the podcast, we explore the potential privacy concerns surrounding wearable brain devices. Plus, we tackle some of the community's burning questions, including advice for neurodivergent researchers and tips for onboarding a new team member. #podcast #braindevices …

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March 24, 2023

E277 - What is the point of user stories?

On this week's episode, our main topic is user stories - exploring the importance of making these effective to use. We also engage with our community and answer their questions on topics like struggling to find UX research opportunities for …

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March 17, 2023

E276 - Time-Traveling with Augmented Reality

This week's episode of our podcast features a discussion on a VR startup working on memory replay tech. We also respond to various community inquiries, including tips on dealing with stakeholders who don't understand qualitative research. Join us for insights …

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March 3, 2023

E275 - AI-nt No Stoppin' Us Now

This week on the show, we talk about 8 Signs That the AI 'Revolution' Is Spinning Out of Control. We also answer some questions from the community about AI replacing the need for UX researchers, asking for a raise 60 …

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Feb. 24, 2023

E274 - OK Boomer, Let's Talk About Ageism

This week on the show, we talk about Ageism, and how it's being viewed as the last acceptable prejudice. We also answer some questions from the community about dealing with Imposter Syndrome, what we’d change if we started our careers …

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Feb. 13, 2023

A Conversation about Human Factors Accessibility that doesn't deserve…

We had a discussion on our most recent post show that deserved to have its own standalone release, because of its importance and relevance to the field.

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Feb. 10, 2023

E273 - A Third (Robot) Arm Might be the Future of Human Augmentation

This week on the show, we talk about the Human Factors Engineering implications of giving humans a third arm. We also answer some questions from the community about the HFES Conference and HFES Healthcare symposium, dealing with stressful stakeholder meetings, …

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Feb. 3, 2023

E272 - How does culture affect HCI?

This week on the show, we talk about Culture, cognition, and human-computer interaction. We also answer some questions from the community about how to get over bad interviews, alternate ways to think about usability methodology, and an update on how …

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Jan. 27, 2023

E271 - You're simply the best, taking a look at CES (2023)

On this week's episode of Human Factors Cast, we dive into the latest and greatest technology showcased at CES 2023. We also tackle some of the real-world issues faced by professionals in the field. From layoffs to toxic company culture, …

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Jan. 20, 2023

ReCast - How Can We Better Define “Mental Health”?

Taking a break this week, so here's our ReCast of Episode 236 where we talk about what the term “mental health” really means and its impact on Human Factors. We also check in with the community about what keeps us …

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Jan. 13, 2023

E270 - TRB's Recap Report is Driving us Wild

This week on the show, we talk about the Transportation Research Board 2022 Annual Report. We also answer some questions from the community about UX Research being overhyped as a field, human factors engineering career help, and gaining experience for …

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Jan. 6, 2023

E269 - Hindenburg's Heir - Airships are back!

This week on the show, we talk about how technology is finally good enough for an Airship Revival. We also answer some questions from the community about job titles, democratizing research, and some of our reading recommendations to start off …

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Dec. 30, 2022

2022 Recap | Bonus Episode

That's right! We're back again with our annual tradition of recapping every news story that didn't make it on the show. We also threw in a few surprises this year! We take a look back at some of the top …

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Dec. 23, 2022

E268 - How ChatGPT exemplifies Chatbot UX

This week on the show, we talk about ChatGPT’s UX and why the conversational UI is powerful. We also answer some questions from the community about transferring to HF/UX as an OT, how to learn about research methods after transitioning …

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Dec. 16, 2022

E267 - Generative AI: A disruption and A Game Changer

This week on the show, we talk about the human factors behind AI content generation. We also answer some questions from the community about tools for tracking multiple research projects, self-education, and tips for those just starting their graduate degrees.

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Dec. 7, 2022

E266 - Pilots in Distress

This week on the show, we talk about the system that keeps pilots from seeking mental health care. We also answer some questions from the community about getting assigned the wrong job title at a new gig, beginner jobs before …

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Dec. 2, 2022

E265 - Why Twitter’s new verification system is a total disaster

This week on the show, we talk about the nightmare UX that has plagued Twitter recently. We also answer some questions from the community about becoming a UX Researcher, our ideal apps, and thoughts on generative AI replacing creative endeavor.

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Nov. 18, 2022

E264 - Multivoting: The best option for group decision-making?

This week on the show, we talk about how voting methods affect group decision-making . We also answer some questions from the community about managing layoff anxiety, competitor research making you want to work for other companies, and how many …

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Oct. 28, 2022

E262 - Robotic boots are walking the walk

This week on the show, we talk about how the Stanford exoskeleton walks out into the real world. We also answer some questions from the community about some of the most important qualities a UX/HF researcher must have, how to …

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Oct. 21, 2022

E261 - Are you lost without your phone?

This week on the show, we talk about how smartphones promise satisfaction and meaning, but a new study shows they deliver only more searching. We also answer some questions from the community about some short and fun ice breaker games …

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Oct. 14, 2022

Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Recap + Podcast Announcement | #…

Recorded in front of a LIVE studio audience on October 11th, 2022, in Atlanta Georgia. Hosted by Nick Roome and Barry Kirby. On this bonus conference coverage episode of Human Factors Cast we recap our livestream coverage of ...

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Oct. 7, 2022

E260 - A New Way to Alert Drivers to Pedestrians

This week on the show, we talk about how drivers could get alerts from nearby pedestrians’ phones. We also answer some questions from the community about ideas on how to reduce meeting overload, research repository development, and resources for shy/introverted …

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Sept. 23, 2022

E259 - Metaverse Standards are Coming

This week on the show, we talk about standardization in The Metaverse. We also answer some questions from the community about agile methodology in Human Factors, the artifacts we usually deliver, and how to deal with other people in your …

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Sept. 16, 2022

E258 - Touch screens are killing your driving experience

This week on the show, we talk about how a new study suggests Buttons in Cars Are Safer and Quicker to Use Than Touchscreens. We also answer some questions from the community about knowing when to leave your job, typical …

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Sept. 9, 2022

ReCast - How Will Cars of the Future Understand Passengers?

This week on the show, we talk about how Artificial Intelligence in vehicles will be able to adapt to our needs and answer some questions from the community about working at a company that doesn't use particular tools, how to …

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Sept. 2, 2022

E257 - Do video games affect your well-being?

This week on the show, we talk about how we may never know how video games affect our well-being. We also answer some questions from the community about human factors being “too specialized,” the UX research job market being saturated, …

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Aug. 26, 2022

E256 - We Have 8 BILLION Humans to Design for

This week on the show, we talk abou how the world population is soon going to surpass the 8 billion threshold. We also answer some questions from the community about following UX guides or carving your own path, networking to …

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Aug. 19, 2022

E255 - I've had it with these HF robots on this HF space station!

This week on the show, we talk about how a surgery-performing robot Is ready for tests on the International Space Station. We also answer some questions from the community about frequency of travel for researchers, getting access to people for …

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Aug. 12, 2022

E254 - THE LINE is a new city without roads, cars, and emissions

This week on the show, we talk about THE LINE, The City of the Future. We also answer some questions from the community about managers hiring unqualified researchers, where to discuss minutiae of daily work with more experienced colleagues in …

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Aug. 5, 2022

E253 - User Perspective on Categorizing Chatbots and Voice Assistants

This week on the show, we talk about how to categorize conversational interfaces. We also answer some questions from the community about human factors engineering being considered design, how to run concept testing that isn’t worthless, and we cover some …

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July 22, 2022

E252 - The future of wearables is...socks?

This week on the show, we talk about how smart textiles can sense how their users are moving. We also answer some questions from the community about red flags in job descriptions, which part of HF and UX we’re bad …

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July 15, 2022

E251 - Grandma, Relax, it's Just a Robot

This week on the show, we talk about how New York State is giving out robot companions to the elderly. We also answer some questions from the community about advice on working with a solution-oriented (rather than needs-oriented) product team, …

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July 8, 2022

E250 - What's the Deal with Double-Decker Airplane Seats?

This week on the show, we talk about the Human Factors and usability implications of double decker airplane seats. We also answer some questions from the community about job titles in Human Factors, the stress and demand of everyday work …

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June 24, 2022

E249 - Let's Talk About Google's Sentient AI

This week on the show, we talk about how a Google engineer claimed their AI was “Sentient” AI. We also answer some questions from the community about research Ethics and presenting information to the public, the pros and cons of …

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June 17, 2022

E248 - Is Society Ready For AI to Make Ethical Decisions?

This week on the show, we talk about a new study on society’s readiness for AI ethical decision making. We also answer some questions from the community about how to deal with ‘know it alls’, what to do in a …

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June 10, 2022

E247 - TRB's New Tool for Airport Construction Safety and Phasing Pla…

This week on the show, we talk about the Transportation Research Board’s new Construction Safety and Phasing Plans tool. We also answer some questions from the community about UX Research being recession proof, how much internships add to your ability …

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May 27, 2022

Ergonomics and Human Factors Conference 2022 Recap | #EHF2022 | Bonus…

This week on the show we sit down with Barry Kirby to discuss the Ergonomics and Human Factors conference (#EHF2022) put on by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors in the UK.

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May 20, 2022

E246 - Let's Kiss in VR

This week on the show, we talk about how new technology will allow us to feel sensations in and around our mouth, We also answer some questions from the community about lucrative sectors in HF/UX/HCI, our ideal work environments, and …

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May 13, 2022

E245 - Human Robot Interaction will Change the Food Industry

This week on the show, we talk about how Human Robot Interaction will change the food industry. We also answer some questions from the community about combating disinformation through Human Factors/HCI/UX, preparing for graduate school if gaining research experience isn’t …

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May 6, 2022

E244 - Fixing Humanity's Broken Risk Perception to Save the Planet

This week on the show, we talk about humanity’s broken risk perception and how it is reversing global progress in (what the UN is calling) a ‘spiral of self-destruction’. We also answer some questions from the community about being lowballed …

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April 29, 2022

E243 - How Human Factors Can Help Pilots Catch A Rocket Booster in Mi…

This week on the show, we talk about how a helicopter will attempt to catch a rocket booster in midair. We also answer some questions from the community about the reality of what the day-to-day is like for a UX …

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April 22, 2022

E242 - How Top Reviews Help Sway Consumer Decisions

This week on the show, we talk about how top reviews sway consumer decision-making. We also answer some questions from the community about representation in UX research, transitioning into the HF field and getting a mentor, and how to apply …

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April 15, 2022

E241 - How Giving Paramedics Jetpacks can Stop People from Dying

This week on the show, we talk about how paramedics might use jetpacks in the near future to save people’s lives. We also answer some questions from the community about how to push back on developer suggestions, advice for conducting …

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April 8, 2022

Human Factors and Chill | Human Factors Hangout | Bonus Episode

Experiencing some technical issues behind the scenes so instead of a normal episode, we'll be hanging out and talking all things Human Factors. Join us as we answer questions live, and talk about our hopes for the future.

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April 1, 2022

E240 - How Can AI Provide Companionship?

This week on the show, we talk about an affair with Artificial Intelligence saved someone’s marriage, and the greater connection of AI to the Human Factors Field.We also answer some questions from the community about dealing with a new product …

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March 25, 2022

E239 - Can we Define Sex as Risky Driving Behavior?

This week on the show, we talk about sex as a form of distracted driving and answer some questions from the community about needing good handwriting skills in UX, coping with job rejections after receiving positive feedback, and we discuss …

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March 18, 2022

E238 - How do our Minds Distinguish Various Social Influences?

This week on the show, we talk about how our minds distinguish between various social influences and answer some questions from the community about prioritizing for very broken products, feeling overwhelmed in new positions, and we debate the merits of …

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March 11, 2022

E237 - Can Human Factors of Workplace Relationships Improve Creativit…

This week on the show, we talk about how to unlock creativity in the workplace through the use of Human Factors Psychology and answer some questions from the community about knowing how Human Factors is for you, certificates in HCI …

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Feb. 25, 2022

E236 - How Can We Better Define “Mental Health”?

This week on the show, we talk about what the term “mental health” really means and its impact on Human Factors. We also check in with the community about what keeps us excited and motivated about Human Factors and User …

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Feb. 18, 2022

E235 - Can Paraplegics Walk Again With Assistance From Technology?

On this week’s show, we discuss how an app enabled a paralyzed man to walk, and take some questions from the community about the Longterm Unemployment Zone, the differences in experience gained between lab work and internships, and when you …

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Feb. 11, 2022

E234 - How Can One Person Operate 130 Drones Simultaneously?

This week on the show, we discuss the human factors challenges with remote unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the context of controlling a drone swarm, and talk about the types of projects that would be most impressive to a prospective …

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Jan. 28, 2022

E233 - Does Watching at 2X Speed Impact Learning?

This week on the show, we discuss e-learning in the context of learning from videos at twice the speed, and talk about our happiness in the field of human factors, how we organize user data, and what it means to …

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Jan. 21, 2022

E232 - Will Future Humans Live Their Entire Lives in the Metaverse?

This week on the show, we talk about living your entire life in the metaverse and answer some questions from the community about the difference between accredited and not accredited graduate programs, the importance of job titles, and what makes …

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Jan. 14, 2022

E231 - Are Virtual Conferences More Inclusive?

This week on the show, we talk about how virtual conferences are more inclusive and eco friendly and answer some questions from the community about useful electives to take in school to augment your Human Factors journey, how to network …

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Jan. 6, 2022

E230 - Did COVID Change the Way We Study Human Behavior?

This week on the show, we talk about how COVID has changed the study of human behavior and answer questions from the community about taking a part time contracts on top of your full time job, writing interview questions for …

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Dec. 31, 2021

2021 Recap | Bonus Episode

We did it. We made it through 2021. Huge thank you to all of our listeners (old and new) that make it worth it for us to do the show. Seriously, we could not do this without you! Now let’s …

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Dec. 17, 2021

E229 - Can we Improve Our Relationship With Robots Through Dance?

This week on the show, we talk about how scientists are building trust in human-robot relationships through performative music and dance and answer some questions from the community about the ethics of working for companies that encourage detrimental behaviors and …

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Dec. 10, 2021

E228 - Is the Mars Mission Doomed From the Start?

This week on the show, we talk about how Mars Mission astronauts are worrying scientists by increasing their autonomy in remote isolation and answer some questions from the community about mustering up motivation to work on your tasking, how to …

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Dec. 3, 2021

E227 - How Will Cars of the Future Understand Passengers?

This week on the show, we talk about how Artificial Intelligence in vehicles will be able to adapt to our needs and answer some questions from the community about working at a company that doesn't use particular tools, how to …

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Nov. 30, 2021

Oil Spill Prevention | Human Factors Minute | #TeamSeas Bonus Episode

..and now for another Human Factors Minute! Oil …

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Nov. 19, 2021

E226 - How Can We Make Self-Driving Cars More Human-Friendly?

Recorded live on November 18th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, & Barry Kirby.

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Nov. 12, 2021

E225 - Should We Trust Computers Over Our Doctor's Expertise?

Recorded live on November 11th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, & Barry Kirby.

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Nov. 5, 2021

E224 - Does Remote Working Foster Innovation?

Recorded live on November 4th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, & Barry Kirby.

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Oct. 28, 2021

1202 The Human Factors Podcast (Interview with Nick Roome) | Preview …

This week we have a special preview from the upcoming episode of Barry Kirby’s 1202 The Human Factors Podcast! Why is it special? Well, our very own Nick Roome sat in the hot seat!

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Oct. 22, 2021

E223 - How can AI Improve Learning?

Recorded live on October 21st, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, Barry Kirby, & Frank Lacson.

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Oct. 15, 2021

E222 - What’s the Point of Transforming Exoskeletons?

Recorded live on October 14th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.

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Oct. 8, 2021

E221 - Can AR Assist Repairs in Space?

Recorded live on October 7th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.

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Oct. 1, 2021

E220 - Emoji: The Future of Communication?

Recorded live on September 30th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.

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Sept. 24, 2021

E219 - Can mental maps help with problem solving?

Recorded live on September 23rd, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.

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