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An ergonomics training program for student notebook computer users: preliminary outcomes of a six-year cohort study
Karen Jacobs1, Jennifer Kaldenberg, Jackie Markowitz
1Boston University, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Sargent College, Department of Occupational Therapy, Boston, MA 02215, USA. kjacobs@bu.edu
Work (Reading, Mass.)
|January 18, 2013
Summary
Ergonomic training and accessories like external keyboards and mice reduced pain and discomfort for students in Maine's Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI). This technology program provided laptops to all 7th and 8th graders.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Ergonomics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Occupational Health
Background:
- The Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) provides notebook computers to all 7th and 8th-grade students for school and home use.
- This initiative involves significant daily technology exposure for young students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess anthropometric measurements and typing proficiency in MLTI students.
- To investigate the impact of ergonomics education and peripheral accessories on student discomfort.
Main Methods:
- A six-year longitudinal study involving 34 seventh-grade students.
- Students received participatory ergonomics training and used accessories like external keyboards and mice.
Main Results:
- External keyboard use reduced neck and shoulder pain.
- External mouse use correlated with fewer reported headaches.
- Not using accessories was linked to self-reported back pain.
- A trend towards reduced visual symptoms was observed.
Conclusions:
- Participatory ergonomics training and external device use offer potential health benefits for students in widespread notebook programs.
- Small sample size limited the study's internal and external validity.
