Abstract:
Abstract
Background: It is very useful to know anthropometric data in order to select the
physical dimensions of equipment, furniture, etc. Furniture without having correct
anthropometric data can have a negative impact on the people using it. So, correct and
specific anthropometric dimensions are necessary for developing furniture for school
children. Anthropometrical dimensions are different according to the age, gender,
ethnic groups, and differ in different countries. In Bangladesh there were no
anthropometric databases available of children to help design suitable furniture for
them. Several global studies have shown a mismatch between the physical dimensions
of children and class room furniture.
Objective of the study: This study aimed to develop an anthropometric database of
the Bangladeshi primary school children aged 6-11 years. This study was designed to
understand any significant differences among the Bangladeshi children aged 6-11
years, between their genders and those living in urban or rural areas.
Methodology: This study was conducted using Quantitative cross sectional
methodology. By using the convenience random procedure a total of 260 participants
aged 6-11 years were selected from two areas (urban and rural) of Bangladesh. Equal
percentages were ensured in age ranges, genders and locations during the participant’s
selection. A total of 22 body dimensions were measured and the data was compared
between the boys and girls, rural and urban.
Data analysis: The total analysis process was carried out using the SPSS computer
package. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate mean averages, standard
deviations and key percentiles. Independent sample T-tests were used to compare the
data between the genders and locations (rural and urban).
Result: This study showed the means, medians and standard deviations of 22
anthropometric dimensions in 6-11 years Bangladeshi children. It also shows the key
percentiles for product design. The anthropometric dimensions were compared
between males and females. Some measurements were significantly different with
regard to gender, but most of the measurements were not significantly different with
regard to gender. Some measurements were higher in boys and some in girls. In this
study, there were significant differences in body dimensions between urban and rural
children. Children living in urban areas were higher than children in rural area of
Bangladesh.
