Date of Defense

4-21-1999

Department

Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

First Advisor

Dr. Tycho Fredericks

Second Advisor

Dr. J. Rodriguez

Abstract

Due to the changes in legislation and work practice standards, there is a growing demand for engineers who have a thorough understanding of ergonomic and safety applications. To prepare Western Michigan University (WMU) industrial engineering students for today's work environment, courses should be geared toward developing a knowledge base to expand career opportunities and allow students the ability to move forward simultaneously with industrial advancements. The goal of this project was to research and develop an ergonomic and safety curriculum to accomplish this objective. A standard curriculum design process was also provided to allow for ease in future implementation of programs independent of the area of study.

The initial phase of the curriculum development was to research the need for an ergonomic and safety program. A survey analysis of industrial employees, was used to determine which ergonomic and safety learning objectives are prevalent in industry and should be included in the minor. Established ergonomic and safety programs at other colleges provided beneficial information for this project. In addition, WMU constraints and curriculum guidelines were also investigated. An analysis of requirements and resources, such as cost of implementation, modernized equipment, and faculty requirements was also a vital step in completing this project. To measure the success of the curriculum following implementation, an employer, alumni, and student feedback process was developed. The outcome of the project included a course-specific ergonomic and safety curriculum for WMU industrial engineering students, as well as a standard curriculum development process so educators will have the ability to efficiently and effectively enhance their current programs and move forward with new technologies.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Campus Only

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