Cergos Logo
Welcome to Computer Ergonomics for Elementary School
What is Ergonomics?
How to Set-Up Computer Workstations
Teacher's Section
Teacher's what to do
Teacher's how to do it
Layout
Accessories
Student's Section
Student's what to do
Student's how to do it
Good Work Habits at your Computer Workstations
Acknowledgements
Ergonomic Resources
Vocabulary
  

Accessories - Mouse Platform

Materials used in these examples:
  • clipboard
  • two stacks of small books
A thin sturdy board and any type of narrow supports that are just slightly higher than the back of the keyboard can do, too. A mouse pad must be used since the clipboard surface is too smooth.

Mouse PlatformPurpose:
To move the mouse into a closer reach distance.

Concern:
The mouse is used with a long arm reach. The student must reach far to the side of the keyboard to use the mouse when it is located on the desk. The number keys on the keyboard are not used at all.

Solution:
A clipboard placed over the keyboard with the help of two stacks of books (one located in front of and one in back of the keyboard) becomes a mouse platform. The clipboard is very close to the keyboard without touching.

Proper Mouse Position
Case Study

Only the use of a mouse is required in this application. Many applications, especially for the younger students, only use the mouse as their main input device.

When the keyboard can be placed out of the way temporarily, the mouse and the mouse pad can be located on the desk directly in front of the student.

This will allow the student to use the arm relaxed at the side of the body and prevent a long reach for the mouse.

[<] Accessories Index