Lesson Plan

• Describe the three main domains of ergonomics (physical, cognitive, organisational) and their relevance to product design.
• Explain how anthropometric data and biomechanical principles inform design decisions for safety and comfort.
• Apply ergonomic criteria to evaluate a prototype, using reach envelopes, grip dimensions and force calculations.
• Analyse environmental factors (lighting, noise, temperature) and propose design adjustments to optimise user performance.

• Projector and screen
• Printed handouts of anthropometric tables and ergonomic checklist
• Measuring tape / ruler
• Cardboard, scissors, tape for low‑fidelity prototypes
• Sample handheld power‑tool (or mock‑up)
• Laptops with CAD or spreadsheet software (optional)

Begin with a short video showing everyday objects that cause discomfort, prompting students to consider why. Recall their prior knowledge of basic design principles and ask them to predict how human size and ability affect product use. Explain that today they will identify measurable ergonomic criteria and use them to improve a design, with success measured by a completed ergonomic checklist.

1. Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on definitions of ergonomics and its three domains.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Overview of physical, cognitive, and organisational ergonomics with a diagram of key anthropometric points.
3. Data activity (10'): In pairs, use the printed anthropometric tables to calculate a design envelope for a handheld tool; record key dimensions.
4. Prototype build (15'): Create a cardboard mock‑up of the tool, test reach and grip, and perform a simple moment calculation (M = F × d).
5. Group evaluation (10'): Apply the ergonomic checklist to critique each prototype, discussing both physical and environmental factors.
6. Plenary (5'): Recap the main ideas; exit ticket – each student writes one specific design change to improve ergonomics.

Summarise how anthropometric data, biomechanical limits, and environmental conditions combine to create comfortable, safe products. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a short homework: research an everyday object and suggest two ergonomic improvements, citing relevant data.