4.12.2007 20:34:00 | Höf.: Sigurður Karlsson

Keynote speaker - Karen Jacobs
Karen Jacobs Ed.D., OTR/L, CPE, FAOTA

Clinical Professor
Program Director, distance education post-professional occupational therapy programs

Boston University
Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Boston, Massachusetts USA

Goldilocks knew about the principles of ergonomics when she tried each of the three bear’s chairs, porridge, and beds to find the right fit.

Let’s shift from a children’s story into a typical computer classroom where students are huddled closely over their computer’s monitors, seated awkwardly in a chair either too large or too small for their stature, their wrists in various contorted positions, and the sun glaring in their eyes; or students walking home from school carrying heavily laden backpacks so that their movements make them look more like beasts of burden.

There is a need for school-aged children to receive practical
evidence-based education in ergonomics. Since today’s children are our next generation of workers, this education will empower them with the knowledge and skills needed to make educated decisions to incorporate ergonomics as a lifestyle. However, what is the most effective way of integrating ergonomics in schools?

This keynote address will provide an overview of the present
evidence-based research on ergonomic issues with children, youths, and students as well as educational, policy, and public health initiatives. It will discuss topics such as the relevant outcome and exposure measures and their applicability and validity for children and the impact of information technology (IT) on cognitive, social, emotional/mental health, and physical development.
You can see Karen Jacobs CV here