Who Am I?
My name is Cole Davis, I am a recent graduate from Arizona State University with a Master's degree in Human Systems Engineering. I have gained much in my time at ASU, not only knowledge but also experience in working with colleagues from different backgrounds. While I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Mexico, I worked with teammates that came from engineering, robotics, and business backgrounds. This has equipped me to collaborate in an interdisciplinary setting.
As technology keeps advancing I believe it is becoming even more important to focus on human-centered design. During my time at the Center for Human, AI, and Robot Teaming it has become apparent to me the importance of designing technology with the average user, and the real use case in mind. It's important to consider from the start of the design process, as to avoid unnecessary redesigns. Therefore it is imperative to observe the environment where the technology will be present, as well as acquire
feedback from the prospective user. My experience has given me the tools needed to not only obtain this information but also utilize it to its fullest potential.
This philosophy can be applied to many different fields. Though my personal interests have nudged me towards the entertainment field - video games, virtual reality experiences, metaverses, augmented reality, controller design, and user experience research - I have been thoroughly prepared to offer my services to any field. User experience can be applied to any user base, it is always helpful to achieve a better understanding of the user's perception of the product, as well as their desires.
With all of this information, it becomes easier to identify design choices that will not only create a product that works better for the user but also improves the reputation of the company for understanding the wants and challenges of the user and responding to them.
​
Reflections
I was never one that particularly enjoyed school, in fact during my undergraduate degree I never planned to attend graduate school. I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in Human Factors, however, the prospect of going to graduate school caused me to rethink that goal and I ended up changing my major from psychology to computer science, then from computer science to business. Eventually, I took a break from school and worked a few jobs as a bartender and server, as well as trying my hand at sales. Over this time I realized that I needed to bite the bullet and pursue my original goals. So I went back to finish my BS and then applied to many different graduate schools. This ended up being the best decision I could have made. Graduate school has been a great experience where I was able to explore my interests so much more freely than during my undergraduate degree. It has amplified my understanding of, and passion for, the field of Human Factors. As well as giving me a more focused idea of my aspirations.
This portfolio stands to show my accomplishments and growth throughout my time at ASU. Though hesitant at first, I feel these projects show how I was able to thrive in this environment once I accepted the challenge. When I decided to attend graduate school I set out to further hone my research skills, while developing a new set of skills in applying these research principles to the industry as well as the challenges that new technology faces. I feel the projects I have presented here illustrate the success I've had on that journey, as well as show my potential to further expand those skills throughout my career. I am looking forward to the future of technology and being a part of its development while being an advocate for the user. I also set out to sharpen my interdisciplinary communication as Human Systems Engineering is a major that attracts students from many different fields. This is something that is hard to show through my portfolio, but I believe was achieved through my time in the Center for Human, AI, Robot Teaming lab as well as my participation in class.
While I took a roundabout way to ASU, what's important is that once I did get there I achieved what I set out to do. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and am excited to apply the skills I have gained. My time was relatively short, but I feel that I was able to fit so much experience into that time. I'm grateful for this program, and all of the faculty; I feel they are very in tune with my goals and have helped prepare me to pursue them. I'm very proud of what I have achieved, and incredibly excited for the future.
