A modified form of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) was employed to apply the ideas of innovation and biomimicry to ergonomics problems. This Biomimicry Innovation Tool (BIT) begins with a focus on nature's laws as a starting point to design and allows students to uncover evidence that will enable the useful application of the laws of nature to solve a technical ergonomics design problem. The BIT blends aspects of problem based learning, innovation, biomimicry, and ergonomics into a single student experience. The prototype BIT was applied and assessed in an undergraduate ergonomics course. The program the students were in requires alternating twelve-week terms of academics and cooperative education employment. The students began by individually identifying an ergonomics concern at their co-op workplace and providing a one-page written description of the concern. The concern was then passed along to another student to innovate a nature-based solution to the concern. Using a step-by-step approach, students formed an idea that evolved into a solution. A grading rubric allowed the professor to fairly and objectively evaluate the final presentations. The prototype BIT will be modified based on student assessment data and experiences in the classroom.
展开▼
