Factors to consider when deciding on AT 6

Ergonomics

It is sometimes difficult for non-specialist school staff to appreciate the importance of correct seating and positioning in relation to the comfort, functional ability and long-term health of pupils with special needs, especially in relation to computer use. There is a strong relationship between an ergonomically-sound work environment and the benefits that a pupil may expect from the technology. Without proper seating and positioning, pupils with limited strength or hand movement will tire quickly and the full benefits of the technology will then be lost. Regular poor posture, caused by inappropriate positioning and seating, should be minimised.

Recommended positioning

Not recommended positioning

Pupils who use wheelchairs or specialised seats will normally be under the care of an occupational or seating therapist and their advice should be sought if there is any concern. Equal thought must be given to pupils who do not have specialist seats but who will be using a computer regularly. Productivity will, generally, improve considerably once optimum seating and positioning is achieved.

Seating and positioning include two aspects: the actual positioning of the person in relation to visual contact with the monitor, and the point(s) of contact with the computer. The '90-90-90' seating position is considered to be the optimum position, but there will be many variations of this, by necessity.

Good ergonomic results may require trial and experimentation. Specialised tables, foot-rests, wrist-rests and arm supports are available to improve comfort. Document holders can be used when typing from books. Pupils with disabilities are sometimes further back from a monitor than normal and large monitors may, therefore, be required.

Glare, caused by light coming from behind the monitor, is a common source of difficulty for pupils. It is normally recommended that monitors are positioned at right-angles to windows, or that window shades or blinds are used. Vertical blinds can be adjusted as the sun moves and the light comes from different angles. A grounded, anti-glare screen for the monitor may help. It may not always be possible to fully meet these needs within the school setting, but teachers should be sensitive to their importance and make every reasonable effort to take them into consideration.

It must be stressed that where there is any doubt in relation to ergonomics, an occupational therapist or similar specialist should be consulted.