James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

PS5109 - Ergonomics

Registered Australian Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist. Completion of an overseas recognised physiotherapy or occupational therapy qualification. Completion of this subject within the degree Masters of Rehabilitation will not enable Australian registration of overseas qualified physiotherapists or occupational therapists.

Subject Description

Ergonomics focuses on the human-machine-environment (HME) model and promotes a systems based approach to understanding problems within this model. Breakdowns in this HME system may present as musculoskeletal problems. This subject develops the students' understanding of the components of the HME model and how they may affect the person. Through a series of on-line learning modules the subject is intended to develop assessment and management skills related to components of the HME system for the clinical therapist. Ergonomics is not confined to the traditional workplace and the issues presented and discussed in this subject are as relevant to the athlete as they are to the worker.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate the ability to evaluate or design the physical work environment to suit an individual or the general population
• demonstrate the ability to use a range of standardised assessment tools for the assessment of the physical work environment
• apply the human information processing system to optimise behavioural change
• describe key aspects of the Human-Machine- Environment system and how it may affect the person
• examine the relationship between musculoskeletal disorders and workplace factors

Subject Assessment

• Written > Technical report - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Workbook - (60%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Passing requirements: complete and submit all assessment items; achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% inclusive of any penalties applied.

Availabilities