Participate 4.1.3 Digital Health Quest

DIGITAL HEALTH CALENDAR

Ergonomic Checklist (Check twice a week and rearrange if necessary:

Monitor placement

Chair Adjustment

Desk Height

Keyboard Placement

Mouse Placement

Lighting

Helps prevent repetitive strain injuries like tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome

Neck Exercises

Tilt head to one side, moving ear toward shoulder - hold 15 seconds - relax - repeat 3 times on each side

Turn head slightly and look down-hold 15 seconds - relax - repeat 3 times on each side

Shoulder Exercises

Slowly raise shoulders up to ears and hold for about 3 seconds-rotate shoulders back and down - repeat 10 times

Wrist Exercises

Hold your arm straight out in front of you

Pull your hand backward with the other hand - palm front, then pull your hand down - palm facing you - hold for 20 seconds - relax - repeat 3 times each

Vision Health

Brace elbows on desk and close to edge - let weight fall forward - cup hands over eyes - close eyes - inhale slowly through nose and hold for 4 seconds - Continue deep breathing for 15-30 seconds

Close eyes - slowly move eyes up to ceiling then to floor - repeat 3 times - close eyes slowly move eyes to left, then slowly to right - repeat 3 times

Hold 1 finger a few inches away from eye and focus on finger - slowly move finger away - focus far into the distance and the back to finger - slowly bring finger back to within a few inches of the eye and focus on something more than 8 feet away - repeat 3 times.

• What is the most proactive means of ensuring the most balanced blend of technology and well-being?

Teachers should design engaging activities that help students

see and understand safe and healthy use of technology.  Model and monitor consistently and plan for time to arrange and put away equipment before and after use.  Keep the areas clean and uncluttered and make sure cords do not cause tripping.  Share tips for reducing common health issues caused by extensive or incorrect use of computers.

• What can students and teachers do to make sure they get the most from technology while simultaneously safeguarding good health?

Create a classroom list of tips for the safe and healthy use of computers and other technology devices. Teachers should model the implementation of these tips and make sure students understand the importance of these strategies and practices.  Post a calendar so all can be consistent and make sure to develop good habits where these health issues and safety issues are concerned.