1
|
Depreli Ö, Topçu ZG, Tomaç H. Mismatch between fixed classroom furniture and anthropometric measurements among university students: Relationships to ergonomic risk. Work 2024:WOR230590. [PMID: 38640187 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appropriate arrangement of classroom ergonomics is necessary for maintaining health and improving academic performance, learning, and motivation. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the anthropometric measurements and ergonomic risk levels of students during a handwriting activity on a fixed desk and chair and to analyze the mismatch and relationships between these factors. METHODS This study included 149 university students (female:73, male:76). Anthropometric measurements (lower and upper extremity length, shoulder height, elbow-rest height, hip-popliteal length, popliteal height, knee height, the distance between tragus and wall, and between acromion and wall) were done with a tape measure. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool was conducted to determine the ergonomic risk level while students wrote a standard text on a fixed desk and chair as if they were taking notes in the classroom. The mismatch was evaluated between backrest height and sitting shoulder height, seat height, and popliteal height. The Pearson Chi-Square and the Spearman Correlation test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS The median values of the participants' age, height, weight, and BMI were 22 years, 1.70 m, 68 kg, and 23.18 kg/cm2, respectively. Most students had inadequate ergonomic posture while writing on fixed furniture at the university (Median RULA grand score: 4). More mismatches for seat height (54.4%) were found in high ergonomic risk levels but mismatches for backrest height did not follow a similar result. CONCLUSIONS More investigation should be conducted with prospective studies including interventions like adjustable furniture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Özde Depreli
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus, via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Zehra Güçhan Topçu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus, via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Hayriye Tomaç
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus, via Mersin 10, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kibria MG, Parvez MS, Saha P, Talapatra S. Evaluating the ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstations and investigating their correlation with reported musculoskeletal disorders and visual symptoms among computer users in Bangladeshi university. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22179. [PMID: 38045124 PMCID: PMC10692799 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, computer users are facing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and visual symptoms. Prolonged sitting in inappropriate, awkward, and static postures on the computer workstation may cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Similarly, inappropriate placement of monitors, illumination, and other factors such as prolonged usage of computers are related to visual symptoms. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the ergonomic deficiencies of computer workstations and their correlation with MSDs and visual symptoms. METHODS This study involved 271 university employees from a Bangladeshi engineering university. Ergonomic deficiencies were evaluated through direct observations and Occupational Safety and Health Administration checklists. In addition, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence of MSDs and visual discomforts. Binary Logistic Regression (BLR) analysis was also used to examine the correlation between musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic deficiencies. RESULTS Results showed serious deficiencies in workstation setup, seating arrangement, monitor orientations, keyboard orientations, other input device orientations, and accessory setup. Employees reported that the MSDs in different body regions during the last 12 months including lower back (62 %), upper back (53 %), shoulders (47 %), and neck (25 %). Moreover, itchy eyes (69 %), tired eyes (83 %), and unclear vision (56.83 %) were the most common visual discomforts or visual symptoms among the participants. Results also revealed that monitor ergonomics and its orientation deficits were significantly associated with visual discomforts. Gender, job type, age, BMI, work experience, duration of computer work, and beak taking after 2 h were the independent variables reliably predicting the MSDs and visual symptoms. CONCLUSION It is evident that MSDs and visual symptoms were associated with computer workstation deficiencies and other work-related factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Golam Kibria
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shohel Parvez
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Palash Saha
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Subrata Talapatra
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu K, Yao J, Tao D, Yang T. Influence of Individual-technology-task-environment Fit on University Student Online Learning Performance: The Mediating Role of Behavioral, Emotional, and Cognitive Engagement. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES 2023:1-20. [PMID: 37361766 PMCID: PMC10157568 DOI: 10.1007/s10639-023-11833-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to examine whether and to what extent university student online learning performance was influenced by individual-technology fit (ITF), task-technology fit (TTF), environment-technology fit (ETF), and whether the influence was mediated by their behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement. A theoretical research model was developed by integrating the extended TTF theory and student engagement framework. The validity of the model was assessed using a partial least squares structural equation modeling approach based on data collected from 810 university students. Student learning performance was influenced by TTF (β = 0.25, p < 0.001), behavioral engagement (β = 0.25, p < 0.001), and emotional engagement (β = 0.27, p < 0.001). Behavioral engagement was affected by TTF (β = 0.31, p < 0.001) and ITF (β = 0.41, p < 0.001). TTF, ITF, and ETF were observed as significant antecedents of emotional engagement (β = 0.49, p < 0.001; β = 0.19, p < 0.001; β = 0.12, p = 0.001, respectively) and cognitive engagement (β = 0.28, p < 0.001; β = 0.34, p < 0.001; β = 0.16, p < 0.001, respectively). Behavioral and emotional engagement served as mediators between fit variables and learning performance. We suggest the need for an extension to the TTF theory by introducing ITF and ETF dimensions and demonstrate the important role of these fit variables in facilitating student engagement and learning performance. Online education practitioners should carefully consider the fit between the individual, task, environment, and technology to facilitate student learning outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaifeng Liu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- School of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingtao Yao
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- School of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Da Tao
- Institute of Human Factors and Ergonomics, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tianrui Yang
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- School of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Evaluation of the External Ear and Head Anthropometric Dimensions Among Fars and Turk Workers for the Ergonomic Design of the Earmuffs. HEALTH SCOPE 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/jhealthscope.100506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Anthropometry plays an important role in the ergonomic design of hearing protection equipment and its compatibility with the dimensions of the external ear and head of workers. Few studies have been conducted on the dimensions of the external ears and heads of workers in Iran with different ethnicities. Objectives: This study aimed to collect the anthropometric dimensions of the external ear and head of workers of two prominent ethnicities of Iran for the ergonomic design of earmuffs. Methods: Following a cross-sectional design, this study was performed on 300 male workers (150 Turk and 150 Fars) aged 20 - 60 years. Anthropometric dimensions of the external ear and head were measured using a spreading caliper, camera, tripod, and tape measure. Photographs were analyzed using Digimizer V5.3.5 software, and data were analyzed using SPSS 21. Results: The mean age of Turk and Fars workers was 33.51 ± 5.41 and 33.95 ± 6.05 years, respectively. The ear shape was oval in more than half of the male workers of the two studied ethnicities. There was a positive correlation between anthropometric dimensions of head and ears in both ethnicities. The 95th percentile of the length and width of the pinna in Fars and Turk workers was larger than the average dimensions of inner ring earmuffs. Conclusions: Hearing protection devices available in the Iranian market should be examined to fit the ear dimensions of different Iranian ethnicities. External ear anthropometric data obtained from this study can be used to redesign the earmuffs in Fars and Turk male workers.
Collapse
|
5
|
Baltà-Salvador R, Olmedo-Torre N, Peña M, Renta-Davids AI. Academic and emotional effects of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic on engineering students. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES 2021; 26:7407-7434. [PMID: 34108843 PMCID: PMC8179070 DOI: 10.1007/s10639-021-10593-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The unprecedented situation of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the closure of universities worldwide and has forced the transition to online learning. This exceptional context compels us to understand students' experience with online learning. Previous literature identifies relevant factors that intervene in the online education experience and can affect students' academic development. One of the main concerns is the students' mental health, given the lockdown restrictions under which classes have been conducted. Furthermore, the impact of the prolonged lockdown and the pandemic fatigue on university students and their academic experience is still unclear. This study delves into engineering undergraduate students' online education experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and its emotional impact across time. With this aim, a questionnaire was distributed to second, third, and fourth-year engineering undergraduate students at two time points, approximately six months apart. The results show significant differences in students' connection with other students and teachers, workspace conditions, and boredom between time points. Besides, the findings indicate significant correlations between academic development and quality of online classes, adaptation of the course, workspace conditions, and connection with other students and teachers, and also between students' emotions and connection with other students and teachers. Finally, the study identifies best practices carried out during online teaching that will be of value for future courses and engineering education beyond the pandemic situation, amongst which those related to effective communication with teachers stand out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosó Baltà-Salvador
- Department of Graphic and Design Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya C, Colom 11, 08222 Terrassa, Spain
| | - Noelia Olmedo-Torre
- Department of Graphic and Design Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya Av, Eduard Maristany 16, 08019 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Peña
- Department of Mathematics, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya Av. Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana-Inés Renta-Davids
- Department of Pedagogy, Universitat Rovira i Virgili Ctra. de Valls, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
The Impact of Environmental Factors on Academic Performance of University Students Taking Online Classes during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mexico. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12219194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the quarantine period determined that university students (human resource) in Mexico had adopted the online class modality, which required them to adapt themselves to new technologies and environmental conditions that are different from classrooms at their university. Specifically, these new environmental conditions can be uncomfortable and have an impact on the students’ academic performance. Consequently, the present study aims to determine the impact that the lighting, noise, and temperature levels (independent variables) have on academic performance (dependent variable) in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. To do this, a questionnaire was developed, which was applied to 206 university students online, and a structural equation model was built that integrates the four variables through three hypotheses, which were statistically validated through the partial least squares method. Results showed that temperature, lighting, and noise have significant direct effects on university students’ academic performance. As a conclusion, it was obtained that the three independent variables have an impact in the sustainability of university students (human resource).
Collapse
|
7
|
Work Standardization and Anthropometric Workstation Design as an Integrated Approach to Sustainable Workplaces in the Manufacturing Industry. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12093728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Poor workstation designs represent a risk factor for operators in assembly production lines. Anthropometric design of workstations facilitates the sustainable development of the workplace. This paper proposes a novel integrated approach about work standardization and anthropometric workstation design as a strategy to increase human factor performance as well as the productivity index in manufacturing companies. The integrating approach is presented through a case study in a publishing press company with operators who perform manual and mechanical tasks in production lines in the box assembly department. Currently, the company’s production capacity is below demand, and in order to satisfy customers’ requirements, the company pays a lot of overtime to operators. In order to solve this problem, the integrated approach was applied. The findings indicated that inefficient movements and body postures in operators decreased from 230 to 78, and the standard time was reduced from 244 to 199 s for each assembled box. In addition, the production rate increased by 229 units per assembly line per day, and overtime was eliminated. Therefore, the novel integrated approach allows the increase of sustainability in the company and the operators’ well-being by making a better use of the human factor, eliminating overtime, and increasing production capacity.
Collapse
|
8
|
Obinna FP, Sunday AA, Babatunde O. Ergonomic assessment and health implications of classroom furniture designs in secondary schools: a case study. THEORETICAL ISSUES IN ERGONOMICS SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1463922x.2020.1753259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fidelis P. Obinna
- Department of Biomedical Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
| | - Adelakun A. Sunday
- Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
| | - Ogunlade Babatunde
- Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Navarro-Bringas E, Bowles G, Walker GH. Embracing complexity: a sociotechnical systems approach for the design and evaluation of higher education learning environments. THEORETICAL ISSUES IN ERGONOMICS SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1463922x.2020.1723037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Navarro-Bringas
- The School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Graeme Bowles
- The School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Guy H. Walker
- The School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Implementation of Production Process Standardization—A Case Study of a Publishing Company from the SMEs Sector. Processes (Basel) 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/pr7100646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reports a case study using a standardization process for increasing efficiency and a better optimization of resources in a printing company with 150 operators having manual and mechanical tasks in the box assembly department along with four production lines. The current capacity is 350 boxes per day, while the demand is 650 units, where the company is expected to pay large sums for overtime. Using work standardization, studying worker movements, timing, and workstations redesign, the main goal was to increase the efficiency and productivity indexes. After applying those tools, the inefficient movements in operators decreased from 230 to 78, eliminating 66% of the unnecessary movements, as well as the standard time in a workstation decreased from 244 to 199 s (18.44%) per each assembled box, and the production rate increased by 63.2%, that is, 229 units per assembly line a day, where overtime was reduced to zero.
Collapse
|