Clarification details
Updated May 2015. This document has been updated in its entirety to address new issues that have arisen from moderation.
The purpose of clarifications
We create clarification documents to help people understand the current requirements of achievement standards. Clarifications do not introduce new criteria, change the intent of the standard, or change what we expect from assessment.
These documents unpack and explain the language and intent of the standard so people interpret and apply the standard consistently. We provide examples or guidance as illustrations only. They are not prescriptions or requirements.
For official requirements, always refer to the current version of the achievement standard as published by NZQA.
Anthropometric data
Anthropometric data is gathered from comparative measurements of the human body. Consideration should be given for the specific situation in which the design sits, as anthropometric data can vary according to biological, genetic, and environmental factors.
Guiding ratios
Guiding ratios are rules of thumb. These ratios are established by statistically comparing anthropometric data of the human body. Examples include rise and run ratio (for stairs), thumb reach (for screen layout), ear size (for ear phones). For example, ratios could be used when designing a hairdryer to determine the shape of the handle, distance to be held from head and the length of the cord.
Ergonomics
This is the relationship between people and the products which they use.
Ergonomic aids
These include ergonomes, human figure computer models or drawing templates, dressmakers mannequins, and room layout templates.
Psychological data
This relates to information about people's emotional responses to aspects of design. These responses are often related to personal preference and will be subjective.
Sensory data
This relates to information about how people perceive designs. It is based on what people physically see, hear, smell, taste or feel.