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Space Ergonomics

Boeing

As new employees on Boeing’s Human Factors Team, students are tasked with their very first project: a complete redesign of the International Space Station’s fitness center. Students will begin by exploring the concept of ergonomics and the importance of exercise in space before they move on to redesign a fitness center that meets the astronauts’ needs in as small a space as possible. Students will then simulate motion capture testing as they evaluate each other’s plans and provide concrete suggestions for improvement.

Boeing and Discovery Education have launched FUTURE U. to inspire and equip the next generation of STEM professionals in aerospace. FUTURE U. offers hands-on learning experiences to help students in grades 6–12 embrace their potential to make an impact and innovate for the future.

View the Lesson Plan

Objectives: Students will be able to:

  • Research and summarize the importance of exercise in space.
  • Redesign the International Space Station’s fitness center while accounting for ergonomics and space constraints.
  • Analyze the design of their peers through the lens of simulated motion capture technology testing.
  • Develop suggestions for design optimizations from a human factors perspective.

This lesson focuses on:

Engineering Design Process

      • Defining the Problem
      • Designing Solutions
      • Refine or Improve
      • Communicating Results

21st Century Skills

      • Communication
      • Collaboration
      • Critical Thinking
      • Creativity

Timing: Three 50–60-minute class periods

View the Lesson Plan


Age: 10—15
Cost: FREE
Type: Online

Date + Time

Date(s): 04/01/2020 - 12/31/2023

Time: See Schedule

Registration deadline: n/a

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