Evaluating instructional computer laboratuaries in terms of physical ergonomic criteria: Suleyman Demirel University case

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate instructional computer laboratories according to the physical ergonomic criteria. A case study design with survey methodology was employed and data were collected through observation. Three computer labs were selected from various departments at the Suleyman Demirel University in Isparta, Turkey. The observation form, which was generated after reviewing the related literature, was used to gather data about computer labs’ physical characteristics, relative humidity and temperature levels, noise levels, desks and chairs, and technical features. The results reveals that the physical features of computer labs, monitor features, relative humidity and temperature levels are in agreement with the ergonomic criteria. However, desks and chairs, keyboard features, and noise levels fail to comply with the criteria, which can cause health problems and decrease the quality of students’ studies. Some suggestions are offered to improve computer labs’ study environments.


Extended Abstract:

 There have been significant changes and innovations in every aspects of human lives. Education is one of the areas that may have been greatly influenced by these changes. Information and communication technologies changed the nature of teaching and learning. They facilitate active student participation, fast and durable learning, visualization, enjoyable learning, saving of time and so on. Therefore, educational institutions establish computer labs to support instructional activities. Although computers provide a number of opportunities, their uses in inappropriate and uncomfortable working conditions have recently caused some serious health problems. Common medical concerns include but not limited to eye strain, vision problems, headaches, pain in the lumbar region of the back, and strain on the ligaments in the back of the hand and wrist. Such problems have become the topic of many research studies and several ergonomic criteria have been established by educational and medical academics. Educational institutions should pay attention to these criteria while setting up computer labs so that students can efficiently benefit from computers. The purpose of this study is to evaluate instructional computer labs’ physical characteristics according to ergonomic criteria suggested in the related literature.

This study was designed as a case study with survey methodology. Case studies allow researchers to deeply examine an object, subject, event and related variables by means of collecting detailed information. Three computer labs were chosen from various departments at Suleyman Demirel University in Turkey. The selection of the labs was made based on their conveniences. Data were collected through structured observation. Researchers initially surveyed the literature to find out ergonomic criteria that should be regarded in computer working environments. Next, they generated the observation form that has six dimensions: computer labs’ physical characteristics (square per student, volume per student, lighting conditions etc.), relative humidity and temperature levels, noise levels, features of desks and chairs, and technical features (keyboard and monitor). The collected data were both numeric and verbal forms. Researchers also took the digital photos of each lab for visual explanations of the study variables. The measurements of lengths were made by measuring tape. Humidity and temperature levels were measured via the testo625 hygrometer digital device. Noise levels were measured via Delta OHM-HD 9020 audiometer. To get the reliable data as much as possible, several actions were taken. First of all, measuring devices were set to continuously measure the variables in a ten-minute period and then calculate the means. Second, measurements were taken in two conditions: (1) while all devices (computers, video projectors, fluorescence etc.) in the labs were closed and (2) while all devices were working. Finally, there was nobody except for the researchers in the labs during the observations.

The collected data were descriptively analyzed according to the previously constructed conceptual framework of the study. The data were summarized under the six dimensions of the observation form. The observed values for each dimension were tabulated and compared with the suggested criteria and standards in the literature. The values within the acceptable ranges were considered to comply with the ergonomic standards and others without the ranges were considered as inappropriate conditions that should be improved.

Regarding physical characteristics, all three labs have acceptable square and volume levels per student, lighting devices, lighting control, and have curtains to control daylight. However, all three labs do not take the advantage of natural lighting. One lab has unsafe electricity installation and two labs have reachable circuit breakers. Al three labs have ideal conditions with regards to humidity and temperature levels. As far as the noise levels are concerned, all three labs produce disturbing noise levels while all the devices are in closed conditions (the suggested level should be lower than 35 dB). On the other hand, only one lab produces disturbing noise while all the devices are in working condition (the suggested level should be no more than 50 dB). Moreover, all three labs fail to comply with the most of the ergonomic standards for desks and chairs such as inadequate width of desks and chairs, the lack of adjustment of height, armrests and backrests on the chairs, and swivel feature of chairs. Concerning technical features, all the labs have appropriate monitor and keyboard settings except for the height of keyboard location.

In conclusion, the results reveals that the physical features of computer labs, monitor features, relative humidity and temperature levels are in agreement with the ergonomic criteria. However, desks and chairs, keyboard features, and noise levels fail to comply with the criteria, which can cause health problems and decrease the quality of students’ studies.