Cognitive Systems Engineering Laboratory

Founded in 1982 at The Ohio State University, the Cognitive Systems Engineering Lab (CSEL) is the oldest Cognitive Systems Engineering university laboratory. We have developed knowledge, methods, and tools to guide the design of systems at the intersection of people, technology, and work in complex settings. We then apply our technical expertise to real-world projects around stretching from our home in Columbus, Ohio, into outer space. As researchers and designers, we identify patterns and leverage new technologies to support dynamic decision-making in the face of anomalies, uncertainty, stress, and even intentional deception by adversaries. Specifically, we are concerned with cognitive functions such as problem-solving, decision making, attention, perception, and memory. Our technological innovations are multidisciplinary, incorporating data analytics, graphic design, human-centered design, simulation, and other fields into our own methods. When constantly evolving technological capabilities create possibilities, Cognitive Engineering transforms these putative benefits into effectivity. CSEL’s integrative perspective on technology and cognitive science grounds technology in the complexities of real worlds of practice and realizes sustainable improvement in human performance.