Body Measurement Technology and Utilisation: Implications for Africa
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Date
2013-10
Authors
Otieno, Rose Bujehela
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journal of Education, Science and Technology
Abstract
Anthropometry is fundamental in medicine, ergonomics, clothing, nutrition, fitness and
health among other areas. Although utilised worldwide for clothing purposes, body
measurement was based on manual and more recently, digital methods mainly in
selected countries especially in the West. Current trends focus on new technology
including state-of-the-art body scanning and subsequent utilisation and integration of
such data in medicine, ergonomics, clothing design, health and fitness. Major national
surveys continue to be conducted worldwide, but these are proprietary especially
because of the cost implications and funding arrangements. While some measurement of
African populations has been conducted, documentation and dissemination of such data
is limited, thereby creating an apparent gap in knowledge and its application. The
purpose of this paper is to contextualise body measurement in clothing technology and
the utilisation of such data in Africa; and to present views from clothing technology
perspectives that were collected from specialists and final year university students.
Using an interview schedule, data were collected and analysed. Areas for focus were
knowledge, educational programmes, usability, availability, new technology and its uptake, research and utilisation in industry. Findings reveal the urgent need for current
comprehensive anthropometric data regarding African populations such as the Kenyan
one. Poor resources and relevant knowledge, technology cost, poor up-take are reasons
for lack of utilisation. To leverage funding, collaboration between governments,
educational and research institutions on the one hand and related industry on the other
is recommended. Integration of new digital and scanning technologies in body
measurement could enhance global competitiveness; with validity and usability of such
data across the different disciplines. The importance, context and implications of body
measurement technology in clothing in Kenya and Africa are discussed.
Description
A Research Article in the African Journal of Education, Science and Technology
Keywords
Anthropometry, Body Measurement, Clothing Technology
Citation
Otieno, R. B. (2013). Body Measurement Technology and Utilisation: Implications for Africa. African Journal of Education, Science and Technology, 1(1), 51-64.