This project aims generating the anthropometric measures of both genders of school children from grade 1 to grade 9 attending the Palestinian public schools. Collectively about 6840 schoolchildren from 11 schools in West Bank were randomly selected to measure their anthropometry (12 anthropometric measures) and all needed statistical analysis and hypothesis testing to measure differences in anthropometry among genders and grades were conducted. In addition, a comparison with the American schoolchildren anthropometry profiles were compared with measured Palestinian ones. Some statistical significant differences were noticed in some grades. All statistical results were tabulated for all grades along different percentiles. Based on the generated anthropometry database, an ergonomic investigation and assessment was done for the teaching environment in classrooms. More specifically, an ergonomic assessment for seats (chairs), tables, lighting and general teaching environment were conducted and compared with its compatibility with anthropometry data generated for the nine grades. Some poorly-ergonomic designed chairs and tables in some grades were observed. A better ergonomic design for the chairs and tables was suggested to increase the compatibility with the measured anthropometry of the schoolchildren. Such design would improve the ease, comfort, efficiency of students through reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries and disorders of schoolchildren.
Keyword: anthropometry, Palestinian, schoolchildren, school furniture.