This year, my goal is to have students have healthier work habits. As I studied the literature concerning computer health issues, it became apparent that children are at risk for ergonomic injuries.
 

The ideal computer workstation should have the keyboard, screen and copy at equal distances from the eyes. The monitor should be slightly below eye level. The material they are using for reference should be the same level as the screen. Students should be able to have their wrists and arms parallel to the floor.

While at the computer, students should sit up straight. If the chairs are not adjustable, students can use pillows or footrests for their feet so they aren't just hanging off the floor. If the chair doesn't have a good back support, small pillows to support the back can be used. Students should hold the mouse gently and not hit the keys hard.

According to the literature, a break should happen ideally sometime between 15 and 60 minutes. It is my intention to institute a regular break during the class.  Students should be reminded to look as far away as possible during this time. They should then make fists with both hands and hold them for five seconds. Then spread their fingers apart and hold for five seconds. Relax the hands and then repeat several times. Stretch arms over head. Look back over right shoulder, hold for ten seconds, and then repeat on the other side. Put ear to shoulder, hold ten seconds and repeat on the other side. Rotate shoulders backwards and then forwards. By creating some healthy habits in the lab, the students should have a more beneficial time at the computer.

Good Sites on Ergonomics

"A Users Guide to Relieving Eyestrain, Headaches and Visual Stress."  www.pave-eye.com/~vision/vdts.htm

"Computer Vision Syndrome" www.doctorergo.com

Edson, Rosyln. "Is Your Computer a Hazard to your Health?" www.themedicalnews.com/computerhealth.html

"Eyes and Computers "The Near Quintad" www.intr.net/mykey/newsletter2.html

McCafferty, Dennis. "Position Kids for Computer Success" USA Weekend. July 28-30, 2000. p. 14.

"Posture Perfect" Creative Classroom. August 2000. Pp 58-60.