Markerless Visualization and Performance Optimization RP has been awarded a grant under the National Research Foundation (NRF) R&D program on IDM in Education. The project is led by Dr Alex Ong from the SHL.This is a major coup for RP as we are one of the only four successful applicants out of the 39 proposals submitted from 8 Institute Of Higher Learning (IHLs). The proposals went through strict evaluation by MOE's Evaluation Committee in May 07 as well as its International Expert Panel (IEP) in June 07.This project will be carried out under the auspices of the Technology Development Center for Ergonomics and Ergogenics within SHL. This domain harnesses Augmented Reality (AR) technology as a potential tool for education, sports coaching and medical sciences. In AR, challenges are encountered in the initialization phase, say, where the surface contours and images are to be obtained to facilitate the posing processes. Also, priori motion patterns may be learnt for AR optimized applications. Eventually, useful augmented feedback can be obtained from a PDA, notebook or even goggles worn by the participants. In the latter case, LCD images may be feedback wirelessly to the participants to facilitate direct dynamic intervention of performance. In addition, real-time bio-feedback may be obtained during training and games situation that can be enhanced with, say, global positioning system and training timing-gates system. The intent here is to provide augmented feedback on human performance without any surface markers, potentially.
Heat & Hydration This domain focuses on developing formulations of electrolyte-and/or-nutritive-supplemented drinks to speed up the recovery process, and optimize hydration and electrolyte levels post physical exertion. The activities would involve (a) Evaluating the extent of fluid and electrolyte loss during exhaustive exercise and/or exercise to fatigue, (b) formulation of electrolyte-and/or-nutritive-supplemented drinks and (c) test the efficacy of formulated drinks in enhancing performance. Ultimately, this domain aims to obtain data on the differing extents of fluid and electrolyte lost during exhaustive exercise and/or exercise to fatigue in males and females, and under different temperatures as well as formulating drinks of different electrolyte, carbohydrate/nutraceutical content to minimize electrolyte losses and enhance performance.
Edmund Foo Email: edmund_foo@rp.sg Contact No.: 3100 1603
Impact of Outdoor Programs Abdul Kahlid (DOAL staff), May Tan and Kuak Nam Jin (both ex-DOAL staff), were chosen by Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) as the tender team to do a research on the impact of an Outward Bound discovery program in March 2007. The research team met with OBS to clarify the research questions and agreed on the specifications to be adhered to complete this project. The project started in March 2007 and was completed in November 2007 with data collection from April to September 2007.
The project was titled “To investigate the life effectiveness and impact of Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) discovery programs on the perceived personal development in Secondary Three students following a 5-day OBS experience.” A total of 1091 students from 18 schools initially participated in this study in which 548 participants fully completed all the items in the questionnaires.
The research approaches were both quantitative as well as qualitative and used SPSS and NVivo to analyse the data respectively. The quantitative method measured participants’ response using the Life Effectiveness Questionnaire (LEQ) and the Self Esteem Scale (SES) questionnaire. The qualitative method consisted of pre and post course interviews with teachers as well as post course interviews with students .
The findings of the research project is consistent with previous international studies. There were numerous learning for both the researchers as well as OBS from the literature perspective and program development perspective. The findings of the study were presented to the OBS Management, the Chief Executive Director of People’s Association (PA) and other Senior Directors in December 2007. The findings were also shared in the recent 3rd MOE Outdoor Education Conference held at Raffles Junior College in June 2008.
Abdul Kahlid Email: abdul_kahlid@rp.sg Contact No.: 3100 1783
Gait Analysis The project aims to study the efficacy of off-the-shelf orthotics slippers and insoles in walking and jogging situations. Muscle activities as well as six degree of freedom kinetics cum kinematics are measured using the latest in biomechanics equipment like the Coda motion active marker motion analysis system, wireless EMGs, instrumented treadmill with piezzo electric force sensors etc. MOE is an active partner in this project. Students from SHL and MOE's Science Mentorship Program are immersed in these experiential activities that allow them to have first-hand experience in leading-edge research.
Movement Analysis e-Coach focuses on advancing sports performance analysis applications. Presently, the selected sports are swimming, water-polo and shooting (air-pistol). It aims to develop practical solutions, based on industry needs, for all in sports, coaching and school-based activities. Students from the Raffles Research Program are actively involved in this project mentored by our specialist academic staff.