Children sit for long hours in the classroom working at their desks and the use of computer-based technology has added to the hours of sitting (Saltikov et al., 2019). Saltikov et al. (2019) report that musculoskeletal and back health of children in schools is become a global health problem. If students do not demonstrate the correct posture while sitting, problems such as headaches, poor circulation, tight neck muscles, mental stress, and poor sleep can result (Saltikov et al., 2019). Ergonomics focus is to assist the worker or student to fit their work in the occupation or school environment efficiently by reducing discomfort (Saltikov et al., 2019). When students are playing their game and sitting for long periods of times, teachers should be assessing the chair, computer, keyboard, and lighting for the student (Saltikov et al., 2019). Additionally, the authors state adjusting the desk, chair, and computer screen with the emphasis on posture to assist the student to prevent the health issues.
Back pain is on the increase for our students due to sitting for long periods of time. Teachers need to conduct ergonomic assessments to assist our child. Pay attention to the position of the chair, computer screen, and their tools for learning.
Join me in exploring the appropriate uses of games in the classroom in my next blog post
References
Bettany‐Saltikov, J., Mcsherry, R., Schaik, P., Kandasamy, G., Hogg, J., Whittaker, V., … Arnell, T. (2019). PROTOCOL: School‐based education programmes for improving knowledge of back health, ergonomics and postural behaviour of school children aged 4–18: A systematic review. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 15(1-2). doi: 10.1002/cl2.1014
Digital Games In the Classroom 