Internal representations, external representations and ergonomics: towards a theoretical integration

Abstract

Ergonomics is concerned with how humans interact with systems to perform tasks that achieve goals. This interaction requires thought processes that construct and manipulate mental representations of situations to enable the selection of task-oriented actions having predicted outcomes. Mental representations are, then, central to task performance and therefore ergonomics. The present review assesses the current state of knowledge regarding the nature of mental representations, focusing particularly on: (1) the vast range of existing terminology that underpins discussions about representational constructs; (2) the important role of memory in understanding mental representation; (3) the tight coupling between external and internal representations during task performance. The review concludes by proposing an integrated framework that shows how key proposals concerning mental and external representations from leading theorists can be brought together to complement one another.