Ergonomics of Organizational and Technical Space in the Educational Process of Children in Kindergarten

Abstract

Abstract. Ergonomics is an interdisciplinary science that applies to various aspects of our lives, extending beyond the workplace. Ergonomics enhances work, education, and leisure activities for lifelong well-being. This article presents the ergonomic principles of the preschool child's world that influence the correct psychophysical development of the child. A quantitative study was conducted in seven non-public kindergartens in the Silesian voivodeship, using direct interviews and elements of overt observation. The study aimed to identify strengths and weaknesses in the ergonomics of kindergartens' organizational and technical spaces, specifically focusing on legal requirements for safe and ergonomic working conditions for children up to the age of 6. The results highlight the challenges faced by designers and kindergarten directors in creating an ergonomic environment for children, revealing numerous difficulties in this area. There is increasing recognition of the importance of ergonomic and safe organizational and technical conditions in early childhood education. The obtained research results are a valuable contribution to a larger study on ergonomics and safety in Polish pre-schools, scheduled for the coming years.