Abstract
The integration of service learning opportunities within an academic experience has enhanced the academic performance of the students and provided them with a sense of community and social involvement. The use of service learning was expanded by incorporating into a human factors course. Students evaluated the ergonomic design of elder care facilities in Oswego, NY. Through a literature review, interviews with residents and staff and their own evaluations, students assessed the ergonomics of two elder care facilities and presented their assessments to the facilities' administrators. All of the goals of the service learning component were met. Students were given a “real world” human factors problem to address, they provided information to the elder care facilities that will improve the quality of care provided to the residents, and the students developed a greater awareness of the needs of the elderly population.
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