Assessing Integration of Ergonomics Education In Undergraduate Student Construction Related Instruction at the College of Engineering Design Art and Technology at Makerere University

Abstract

This research proposal aims to assess the integration of ergonomics education in undergraduate student construction-related instruction at the College of Engineering Design, Art, and Technology at Makerere University. The specific objectives of the study include determining the extent to which ergonomics education is included in undergraduate construction-related courses, assessing the effectiveness of current ergonomics education methods, identifying factors influencing the level of effectiveness in integrating ergonomics education, and providing recommendations for improving ergonomics education based on the findings. The research strategy employed for this study involved the use of surveys to gather data. The research population consisted of undergraduate students pursuing courses connected to the construction industry at Makerere University's College of Engineering Design, Art, and Technology. A total of nine undergraduate courses were identified as suitable sources, and thirdyear students were selected as the research population due to their accessibility and reasonable understanding of the syllabus. Stratified sampling and convenience sampling techniques were used to select the sample population. Data collection primarily relied on questionnaires administered to the respondents. Two sets of questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data. Questionnaire One aimed to determine the extent of ergonomics education in undergraduate courses and identify factors affecting its integration, while Questionnaire Two assessed the effectiveness of current ergonomics education methods by measuring respondents' knowledge of various ergonomics concepts. Ethical considerations, including informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity, data protection, and plagiarism control, were followed throughout the research process. The study's significance lies in its contribution to clarifying the extent to which ergonomics is taught to undergraduate students in construction-related courses at Makerere University. The findings will serve as a reference for future activities aimed at promoting ergonomics, an essential aspect of worker health and safety.