Alternative computer mouse designs: performance, posture, and subjective evaluations for college students aged 18-25

Area of Science:

• Ergonomics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Occupational Health

Background:

• College students experience high computer usage, leading to increased musculoskeletal symptoms.
• Innovative mouse designs aim to reduce physical stress through alternative postures and movements.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate alternative computer mouse designs for college students (18-25 years).
• Assess physical impact and usability through precision tasks, analyzing wrist movements, hand posture, and user feedback.

Main Methods:

• Evaluated five mouse designs with 21 healthy students using a precision point-and-click task.
• Collected data on hand fit, wrist movements, subjective feedback (ease of use, comfort), and performance metrics (speed, movement time).
• Utilized electrogoniometry and questionnaires for comprehensive data collection.

Main Results:

• Three of five alternative mouse designs exceeded the 30-degree wrist extension threshold.
• Hand posture (MCP angle) influenced mouse control and usability.
• Subjective preferences correlated with comfort, ease of use, and perceived control, with no gender differences.

Conclusions:

• Alternative mice showed faster speeds but similar wrist posture risks compared to conventional designs.
• Exceeding 30-degree wrist extension is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Guidance on proper use techniques for alternative mice is crucial to mitigate musculoskeletal risks for students.