Ergonomics tuition modules for designer training
A project by KAN
The modules were designed primarily for the academic training of designers, and equip lecturers to teach principles of ergonomics without intensive preparation. Owing to their modular structure, the materials can also be used to supplement existing lecture materials. The tuition modules consist of sets of PowerPoint slides, accompanied by lecturers‘ notes, a wide range of examples (for example in the form of brief video sequences), and exercises.
The modules can be downloaded free of charge from KAN's website (in German).
The tuition modules are to enable lecturers - including those from disciplines outside human engineering - to deliver basic knowledge from the area of ergonomics and ergonomics standardization.
At the beginning of the project, teaching staff in the area of design were consulted regarding the extent to which ergonomics was covered by their own teaching activities, and their own wishes regarding the subject. This consultation produced certain basic points of reference for the project:
Website screenshot
Based upon the identified requirements, the basic ergonomic knowledge was compiled into five tuition modules together with examples of good practice. Altogether, the material can be delivered in five ninety-minute lectures. Each module is sub-divided into further sub-units which can be used independently of each other.
Module 1
provides an introduction and a case example describing essential problems associated with the ergonomic design of work equipment, together with their ramifications for the work process. The case example is taken up by all the modules.
Modules 2 to 4
deliver specialist knowledge on the subjects of anthropometry and biomechanics, workplace environment factors (noise, mechanical vibration, lighting/colour, ambient climate) and the human-machine interface (controls and displays).
Module 5
contains application examples for the design of products and workplaces with particular consideration for the target group.
The tuition concept is supported by a collection of illustrative examples (videos, photographs and text). Solved test questions and exercises are also provided. The tuition modules are supplied as Powerpoint presentations, together with lecturers' notes and descriptions.
The tuition modules have been favourably received in preliminary tests.
The website is available here: www.ergonomielernen.de (This link opens a new browser window)
Contact information
Kommission Arbeitsschutz und Normung (KAN)
Geschäftsstelle
Alte Heerstraße 111
53757 Sankt Augustin
Dr. Anja Vomberg
+49 (0)2241 - 231 - 3454
Fax: +49 (0)2241 - 231 - 3464
vomberg@kan.de
Internet: www.kan.de
The modules can be downloaded free of charge from KAN's website (in German).
The tuition modules are to enable lecturers - including those from disciplines outside human engineering - to deliver basic knowledge from the area of ergonomics and ergonomics standardization.
At the beginning of the project, teaching staff in the area of design were consulted regarding the extent to which ergonomics was covered by their own teaching activities, and their own wishes regarding the subject. This consultation produced certain basic points of reference for the project:
- Ergonomics is important but is barely touched upon at present, since insufficient teaching time is available for design theory.
- With the introduction of modular Bachelor degrees in Germany, lecturers are now able to decide themselves whether to integrate generic subjects such as ergonomics.
- Considerable interest exists in external teaching materials, for example in the form of prepared lectures lasting 5 to 30 minutes. Modules for independent learning, including advanced exercises, are also considered beneficial.
;)
Website screenshot
Based upon the identified requirements, the basic ergonomic knowledge was compiled into five tuition modules together with examples of good practice. Altogether, the material can be delivered in five ninety-minute lectures. Each module is sub-divided into further sub-units which can be used independently of each other.Module 1
provides an introduction and a case example describing essential problems associated with the ergonomic design of work equipment, together with their ramifications for the work process. The case example is taken up by all the modules.
Modules 2 to 4
deliver specialist knowledge on the subjects of anthropometry and biomechanics, workplace environment factors (noise, mechanical vibration, lighting/colour, ambient climate) and the human-machine interface (controls and displays).
Module 5
contains application examples for the design of products and workplaces with particular consideration for the target group.
The tuition concept is supported by a collection of illustrative examples (videos, photographs and text). Solved test questions and exercises are also provided. The tuition modules are supplied as Powerpoint presentations, together with lecturers' notes and descriptions.
The tuition modules have been favourably received in preliminary tests.
The website is available here: www.ergonomielernen.de (This link opens a new browser window)
Contact information
Kommission Arbeitsschutz und Normung (KAN)
Geschäftsstelle
Alte Heerstraße 111
53757 Sankt Augustin
Dr. Anja Vomberg
+49 (0)2241 - 231 - 3454Fax: +49 (0)2241 - 231 - 3464
vomberg@kan.de Internet: www.kan.de
