Introduction
One of the most fascinating parts of IB Design Technology (DT) is the study of human factors and ergonomics. This area explores how products, systems, and environments are designed to fit human needs. With first exams in 2027, students must understand how ergonomics influences both coursework and exam questions.
In this article, we’ll explore what human factors mean in IB DT, how they are assessed, and why they are critical for success. For in-depth resources, visit RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub, which provides full coverage of the syllabus.
Quick Start Checklist
- Human factors = designing for people.
- Ergonomics ensures comfort, usability, and efficiency.
- Relates to anthropometrics, physiology, and psychology.
- Tested in both the IA and exams.
- RevisionDojo offers guides and examples aligned with 2027 exams.
What Are Human Factors in Design?
Human factors study how people interact with products and systems. In IB DT, this includes:
- Anthropometrics – using body measurements to guide design.
- Physiology – understanding human performance and limitations.
- Psychology – considering perception, usability, and behavior.
Designing with these factors ensures products are safe, comfortable, and effective.
Why Ergonomics Matters in IB DT
- Improves Usability – Products designed with human factors are easier to use.
- Enhances Comfort – Ergonomics reduces strain and fatigue.
- Increases Safety – Designs prevent injuries and accidents.
- Boosts Efficiency – Systems tailored to human needs improve performance.
Human Factors in Assessments
- Paper 1: Tests definitions and principles (e.g., percentiles in anthropometrics).
- Paper 2: Includes extended responses on usability, safety, or comfort.
- Paper 3 (HL only): Case studies may require analyzing ergonomic challenges.
- IA: Projects must consider the user’s physical and psychological needs.
Examples of Human Factors in Design
- Designing an ergonomic chair to reduce back strain for students.
- Creating a user-friendly phone interface with accessibility features.
- Developing kitchen tools that are safe for elderly users.
- Using percentile data to design doorways, desks, or vehicle seating.
Tips for Mastering Human Factors
- Learn key terms like anthropometrics, biomechanics, and affordance.
- Use diagrams to explain ergonomic concepts in exams.
- Apply to real-world examples when revising.
- In your IA, collect user feedback to show how human factors shaped your design.
How RevisionDojo Supports Human Factors Learning
RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub provides:
- Clear guides on human factors and ergonomics.
- Example IA projects with strong human-centered design.
- Practice exam questions for SL and HL students.
- Case study support for Paper 3 applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the difference between ergonomics and human factors?
Human factors is the broader field, while ergonomics specifically focuses on physical comfort and usability.
2. How do percentiles work in ergonomics?
Designs typically aim to accommodate 5th–95th percentile ranges to fit most users.
3. Do I need to include human factors in my IA?
Yes — user-centered design is essential, and ignoring ergonomics may cost marks.
4. How often is human factors tested in exams?
Frequently. It’s a core part of the syllabus and comes up in both short and long-answer questions.
5. Where can I find reliable revision for this topic?
RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub includes human factors resources aligned with the 2027 syllabus.
Conclusion
Human factors and ergonomics are central to IB Design Technology. They ensure designs are safe, comfortable, and effective while preparing students to think critically about user-centered solutions.
With first exams in 2027, students must master these concepts for success in both exams and IA projects. RevisionDojo already provides the best resources for human factors and ergonomics in IB DT, ensuring you’re ready for every challenge.
Start revising today with the IB Design Technology study hub.
