ITKids : is paper IT work more physically variable than computer IT work for children?

Jemma L. Coleman, Leon Straker, Robin J. Burgess-Limerick, Clare M. Pollock

Research output: Chapter in Book / Conference PaperConference Paperpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

![CDATA[Children are spending more time than ever on computers for school and leisure and the effect of computer use on their developing musculoskeletal systems is of concern. There is evidence to show that mean electromyography (EMG) does not accurately characterise risk. The aim of this study therefore, was to compare the neck/upper limb EMG variability when children use computer and paper information technology (IT), including use of keyboard/mouse and pen. The variation in EMG whilst children were actively working and being inactive was also compared. Twelve boys and 12 girls worked for 10 minutes at either a computer or a paper task, with a 5 minute break between. EMG in bilateral cervical erector spinae, upper trapezius, thoracic erector spinae, right anterior deltoid and right wrist extensor muscles was recorded and expressed as a percentage of maximum voluntary exertion. EMG variability was assessed using amplitude probability distribution function (APDF) and exposure variation analysis (EVA). Significant differences were found using Wilcoxon tests with a critical alpha level of 0.01. Using APDF, paper use resulted in a more variable muscle activity in some muscles. Using EVA, EMG during paper use was more variable than computer use only in the inactive portions of the task. Computer IT resulted in less EMG variation than paper IT.]]
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 43rd Annual Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia Conference 2007, November 26-28, 2007, Perth, Western Australia
PublisherHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia
Pages58-66
Number of pages9
ISBN (Print)9781605604763
Publication statusPublished - 2007
EventHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia. Annual meeting -
Duration: 2 Dec 2013 → …

Conference

ConferenceHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia. Annual meeting
Period2/12/13 → …

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