After successful completion of the course, students are able to...

...describe approaches and concepts of humanization and augmentation of efficiency of work systems through optimal design and execution of human labor and apply them on practical examples
... know about the importance of ergonomics
...name essential influencing variables on work satisfaction
...distinguish between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and explain the necessity of this differentiation
...explain the importance of ressources and strain
...name coping strategies (primary, secondary and tertiary prevention) for strains
...reflect on group processes

Work science is an interdisciplinary discipline derived from engineering and looks at the subject of work from different angles. The aim of work science is to design work that is both humane as well as efficient / effective.

The object of work science is therefore to analyze existing working conditions, to systematically process them and to provide measures for possible improvements. Here, two different perspectives can be assumed: On the one hand, work can be adapted to people. This involves analyzing people's abilities, skills and characteristics and adapting the workplaces, workflows and environment accordingly. Ergonomics plays a key role here. The second perspective, adapting people to work, is about ensuring that people can meet the demands of the job and are motivated to do it. Both perspectives are essential.

The course encompasses the following topics:

• Ergonomics
• Work environment
• Analysis and evaluation of work
• Design of work
• Group work
• Work motivation and satisfaction
• Work and health
• Future of work

Online video, online guest lecture, online Q&A sessions, excersises

Attendance:

Participation in introductionary session is obligatory. Students who are not present in the introductionary session are automatically signed off.

The content can be acquired via self-study, but will be discussed further in the Q&A sessions (participation points in total 25%)

active participation during Q&A sessions, online-exams (open book + multiple choice), exercises

A reader with the relevant literature can be purchased for € 10,-.

Prior completion of "Grundlagen der Betriebs- und Unternehmensführung" recommended.