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Monday, September 8, 2014

Avoiding Computer Eye Strain

With our new instructional tools at MHHS high school, many students and parents may be concerned about all of that time students spend looking at a computer screen during the day, and whether all that computer use is going to cause damage to a student's eyes.  Much has been written about eyes and eye strain and computer use.  In a fairly recent article published in TIME magazine, the author, Laura Newcomer, spoke to eye professionals about the effect computer use can have on the eyes.  While both experts stated that prolonged computer use is unlikely to actually damage the eyes, that same prolonged use can cause eye fatigue and/or strain.  They reported that a number of factors can increase the likelihood of eye strain while using computers "...including uncorrected vision problems, dry eyes, glares on the screen, poor lighting, poor posture and even the angle of the monitor."  The cited other examples of factors that can cause eyes to get tired while using screens.  The medical professionals suggested several guidelines to ensure that symptoms of eye strain are eased or eliminated.  These guidelines include the following:

  • Have your eyes check regularly
  • Reposition the computer
  • Follow guidelines for good posture
  • Ensure proper lighting
  • Reduce glare
  • Blink frequently
  • Take regular work breaks
  • Clean the monitor regularly
  • Try computer glasses
There are also several Chrome Webstore apps that can be downloaded on your student's Chromebook that will remind students to look away from their screen at regular intervals, to move around, and to correct their posture.  One of the simple Chrome Webstore apps is called Eye Rest, and reminds students to look away from their screen at intervals that can be determined by the individual user.  Check it out.  It might be a good idea for parents to do the same thing at their places of work so you can avoid eye strain just like your students!  

To read the full TIME magazine article online, visit the following link:  http://healthland.time.com/2012/09/13/computer-eye-strain-explained-and-how-to-avoid-it/

1 comment:

  1. Computer eye pressure
    was designed when it seemed the computer was worldwide and would always be, Perhaps. It should really be known as electronic eye pressure because the problem can be applied to our relationships with electronic shows. Your computer is now only one of these and a decreasing one.

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