Inclusion in the clinic: A mixed methods study of left-handed student's perceptions of using cordless keyboards

Little is written on obstacles for left-handed students in the dental clinic. This mixed methods study evaluates the experiences of using cordless keyboards for left-handed dental students.

Researchers purchased four Logitech K400 Plus wireless keyboards. Using Qualtrics, a survey software, a pre-survey was sent out at the beginning of the spring semester prior to introducing the cordless keyboards. A post-survey circulated at the end of the semester. Quantitative analysis statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics. Researchers conducted a thematic analysis of the qualitative survey responses.

Twenty-three left-handed D3 and D4 dental students were asked to participate in a survey about cordless keyboards. The pre-survey had a 100% response rate, and the post-survey had a 71% response rate. The surveys indicated that left-handed students often face a range of barriers in clinical settings, including ergonomic challenges to enter data, difficulty managing time due to double entry of data on right-handed equipment, and feelings of psychological unsafety due to fear for asking for support. The most significant finding was as follows: not only did the cordless keyboard assist clinical performance, but the cordless keyboard project also helped students feel heard and validated as left-handed learners.

Researchers recommend that educators prioritize the inclusion of left-handed learners through various practices like making adjustments to physical spaces and creating inclusive environments where all learners feel supported.