2Trakya University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Occupational Therapy
3Lokman Hekim University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
Abstract
Backgrounds and Aims: This study aimed to determine ergonomic school chair design requirements for children with special needs between the ages of 6-12 studying in a pilot school. Materials and Methods: School chair design requirements were obtained through focus group discussions by ensuring the participation of experts in the field. An expert group consisting of physician, teachers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and academicians working in the field of design participated in the study. The opinions of the experts who agreed to participate in the study were obtained during a semi-structured interview consisting of 4 questions. Results: Four themes emerged from the responses. In the theme of adjustability, it was stated that the chair's length, tilt angle; seat width and depth, material, armrests, and foot supports should be adjustable according to the size of the child. In the theme of add-on supports, the need for attachable materials for the child's head, trunk, back, arms, and legs was emphasized. In the theme of suitability for school use, it was stated that the chair should be cleanable, take up little space, and be accessible. Under the theme of the benefits of proper design, it was stated that the child's development can be supported in many areas. Conclusion: In future studies, school chair production can be carried out in the short term by taking into account the relevant requirements. In the long term, the expected benefits for the child can be investigated with objective measurements.