Notes

Outline

Ergonomic Issues for Classroom Computing Alan Hedge, Ph.D. Marisol Barrero, Lorraine Maxwell, Ph.D. Dept. Design and Environmental Analysis Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.

Computers in Schools Rapid proliferation of computers in schools. Primary focus on hardware and networking. Secondary focus on educational software and curriculum. Laptops increasingly being favored over desktops. Goal of ubiquitous computing. Teaching training/technology integration lags. Physical ergonomic issues seldom considered.

Laptop Computer Use In 1996, Microsoft and Toshiba began a Laptop Pilot Program at 52 schools across the United States in which students have 24-hour access to laptop computers and the computers are fully integrated into classroom instruction. The pilot program was designed to demonstrate that providing every student within a classroom with access to "real world" business tools would produce substantial educational benefits. No consideration of Ergonomic Issues

Ergonomic Issues Children’s posture, age Computer design desktops, laptops, pda’s Furniture design Backpack design Time management School and home use Effective Ergonomics Information

Ergonomic Design Research How ‘ergonomic’ are the different hardware and furniture designs?

Ergonomics Information Research What is the most effective way of delivering ergonomics information?

Computer Use Research How can we best structure the time that  children use computers? Curriculum issues Rest-break issues Software timers Time limits

Ergonomics Education Research How can we most effectively present parents and children with appropriate ergonomics information?

Ergonomics Programs Research “Get Techfit” program – Blackwell Elementary School, WA and Cornell University. Classroom instruction on computer ergonomics Class exercises on computer ergonomics Parents booklet on  computer ergonomics Web-based program information Teacher commitment

Good or bad? What is right or wrong with these pictures?

Good or bad? What is right or wrong with these pictures?

Good or bad? What is right or wrong with these pictures?

Good or bad? What is right or wrong with these pictures?

Good or bad? What is right or wrong with these pictures?

Future Agenda? Intensify efforts to promote public awareness of the importance of Ergonomics in school and home computer use. Promote professional awareness of classroom ergonomics issues. Provide effective Ergonomics education information for schools and parents. Define effective Ergonomic designs for hardware, software and furniture. Encourage professional initiatives for IEA/HFES to promote Ergonomics in Schools.

Our Responsibility? As professionals, we believe it is our responsibility to protect future generations against known injury risks, and to ensure that our children acquire good lifelong skills based on sound ergonomics practice.