Knowledge of Computer Ergonomics among Computer Science Engineering and Information Technology Students in Karnataka, India

Abstract

Ergonomics is the science of designing the job to fit the worker. Neglect of ergonomic principles results in inefficiency and pain in the workplace. The objective of this research is to assess the knowledge of Computer Ergonomics among Computer Science Engineering and Information Technology Students in Karnataka. In this Cross-sectional study, 177 Computer Science Engineering and Information Technology Students were recruited. A questionnaire is used to gather details regarding Personal characteristics, Computer Usage and Knowledge of Ergonomics. Descriptive statistics was produced for Personal characteristics and Computer usage. The distribution of responses to the items related to Ergonomic knowledge was presented by percentage of the subjects who answered correctly. The results shows that Majority of the subjects were unaware of ergonomics (32.8% correct responses), cumulative trauma disorders (18.6% correct responses), healthy postures related to elbow (34.4% correct responses), wrist & hand (39.5% correct responses), Level of Monitor (35% correct responses), Position of mouse (47.4% correct responses) and Mini breaks (42.9% correct responses). This research highlighted the necessity of Ergonomic training regarding healthy postures and the measures to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders for the students.