1. EMPATHIZE
1.1. **Who** are we empathizing with?
1.1.1. Hostel students at Pin Hwa High School facing prolonged sitting during daily self-study and extended exam periods.
1.2. What do they **need to do?**
1.2.1. Sit for extended hours with limited movement, maintain focus despite physical discomfort, and adhere to a rigid study schedule that intensifies during exams.
1.3. What do they **see?**
1.3.1. A structured environment that limits movement, alongside peers who experience similar physical discomfort, particularly during exam periods.
1.4. What do they **say?**
1.4.1. Express frustration about muscle soreness, shoulder pain, and tailbone discomfort.
1.4.2. The desire for opportunities to stretch or move freely during study hours to alleviate discomfort.
1.5. What do they **do?**
1.5.1. Attempt subtle adjustments, like shifting or stretching, to reduce discomfort, though the movement is limited by school policies.
1.6. What do they **hear?**
1.6.1. Emphasis from school staff on maintaining discipline and focus during study hours, especially during exams, with limited recognition of the physical toll.
1.7. What do they **think and feel?**
1.7.1. Frustration due to physical pain that affects concentration, alongside a desire for relief and greater flexibility to move during study times, especially during high-stress exam periods.
2. Ideas Compiled
3. IDEATE
4. DEFINE
4.1. Problem Statement
4.1.1. **How** can the chair support healthy posture during prolonged sitting?
4.1.1.1. **Challenge:** Extended sitting causes muscle strain and soreness.
4.1.1.2. **Solution:** Design a chair with ergonomic backrest and seat for natural posture.
4.1.1.3. **Goal:** Optimize lumbar and spine support to reduce fatigue and discomfort.
4.1.2. **How might** we make the chair adaptable to different body types and sizes?
4.1.2.1. **Challenge:** Students differ in height, weight, and body shape.
4.1.2.2. **Solution:** Chair with adjustable seat height, backrest angle, and armrest width.
4.1.2.3. **Goal:** Ensure comfort for diverse student body types.
4.1.3. **How might** we create a design that is lightweight yet durable?
4.1.3.1. **Requirement:** Chair must be sturdy and easy to move in hostel rooms.
4.1.3.2. **Solution:** Use lightweight, durable materials for portability and longevity.
4.1.3.3. **Goal:** Allow students to rearrange seating without compromising durability.
4.1.4. **How might** we encourage students to use it correctly by making the design visually appealing?
4.1.4.1. **Benefit:** Attractive design encourages proper use of the chair.
4.1.4.2. **Effect:** Students adjust it for comfort, promoting correct posture.
4.1.4.3. **Goal:** Balance aesthetics with functionality for consistent use.