Anthropometry Project

Anthropometry ProjectDriving QuestionWhat is an optimal middle school learning environment?

Optimal: best or most favorable.

Learning environment: classroom

In your mind, how do you picture the room where middle school students learn best?

Preliminary Investigation1. Select one area:one academic classroom (such as math) or a learning center (such as the library)or the large room downstairs (for a new study center)

2. Consider the types of lessons/activities in that room: -full class presentations by the teacher-small group work -large group discussions -individual work -learning centers -materials/equipment used by students

Preliminary Investigation cont.3. Other considerations:-Number of 6th grade students who will use that space.-Average measurements of a 6th grade student.-Size and shape of room.-Placement of non-movable items such as: doors windows (if any) counters closets

4. Research what is available? Study floor plans, furniture, lighting, electronics.What is already available? How can you change it andmake it better? What can you create that will be different,unique, and functional?

Your GoalYour Goal - to show how you can design a better learning environment by utilizing what you have learned about anthropometry specifically biometrics (measurements) andergonomics (design and arrangement).

Project 1 poster and 1 modelPossibilities include but are not limited to floor plans, architectural drawings, computer images (Sketch It Up), and cardboard, clay, and/or Styrofoam models.All drawings and models must be to scale.

TimelineThur. and Fri. Make your plan1. Decide on a room.2. Do research.3. Complete the Project Work Report and Our Agreement.4. Complete the Specific Tasks sheet.5. Make a list of materials and who is responsible for getting them to school on MONDAY.

Next week -

You will have each afternoon (Mon. Thur.) to work on your project. On Friday, your project will be set-up in the Lair, and you will present it to administration, teachers, and Lower School students.

Remember to plan for the number of students and activities in that room.Here are a few ideas. Lets start with furniture.

Do students have to sit?

In which rooms might students do betterIf they could stand?

Can you be creative?

Places to sit and/or recline can be quite different.

All chairs arent the same.

There are options to traditional chairs and desks.

Quiet room?WheelsShelvesLED Light

How about swivel chairs?

Think about the layout.

Remember it must be to scale.

This is a good start.

This is better. It includes scale and description.Dont Forget the Use of Wall Space and Electronics

How do you think these work?

Interactive TablesMath problems Diagramming sentences Locating countriesMapping volcanoesNow, put it all together.

Use of walls.Now, put it all together.

Tables, chairs, and stools.Use of walls.Now, put it all together.

Learning Centers.Use of walls.Tables, chairs, and stools.Now, put it all together.

Learning Centers.Use of walls.Electronics.

Dont forget art, computer, and

drama.

Have fun as you create an optimal middle school learning environment.