Using Computer Simulation To Teach Undergraduate Engineering And Technology Students Ergonomics

In this article, we are presenting a senior level course module on ergonomics that was developed at Purdue University. Instead of lecturing on the basic principles, this course module consisted of two core exercises. The exercises were based on a computer simulation package available on campus. With a two-hour brief of the domain knowledge, students learned how to manipulate the manikin in a virtual environment to accomplish a given task. After the students became familiar with the major functions of the software, various assembly process plans from industry partners were distributed, where the individual students were to model and verify human operations specified in the worksheets. Through the “hands-on” experience and group discussion in a problem-based learning setup, students were exposed to various topics of ergonomics in the workplace. The topics included postures, movements, viewing angles, and mental loads along with possible injures and health concerns. It appeared that the students’ awareness and attitude toward ergonomics had significantly changed after taking this course module. A follow-up study to evaluate this course and investigate its potential contribution to undergraduate engineering and technology education is discussed at the end of the article.