History, present, and future of cognitive ergonomics in Europe

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the evolution, current landscape, and future trajectory of Cognitive Ergonomics (CE) in Europe, based on discussions at the ECCE con- ference in 2024 in Paris, France. CE, grounded in disciplines such as cognitive psychology, computer science, and human factors, has evolved through technological and methodological shifts. Histor- ically, CE addressed issues of human error and usability in early computing contexts, progressing from individual-focused models to complex socio-technical and human-AI systems. European devel- opments have been shaped by regional paradigms—Scandinavian participatory design, British psychological frameworks, Italian au- tomation methodologies, French task analysis, and interdisciplinary German approaches—reflecting diverse academic and industrial contexts. Human error research, particularly its systemic framing and ethical dimensions, has remained a central theme, with increas- ing relevance in emerging intelligent technologies. Recent trends highlight the integration of generative AI, brain-computer inter- faces, and human-machine collaboration. Future challenges include addressing ethical concerns, preserving human autonomy, and promoting sustainable interaction design. This review underscores the continued importance of CE in guiding responsible techno- logical innovation and calls for stronger collaboration between researchers, industry, and policymakers. By examining CE’s multidisciplinary roots and regional expressions, the paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of its evolving role in shaping human-centered technology.