This introductory article will illustrate how ergonomics has come to occupy a prominent place in translation and interpreting studies. It will review the studies that have been carried out in recent years to measure physical, cognitive and organisational conditions within the language industry. It will be argued that, despite the growing awareness…

This article presents an overview of multiple sclerosis (MS), one of the most common neurological disorders in the western hemisphere. Medical and psychosocial aspects of the disease such as causes and risk factors, diagnosis, incidence and prevalence, symptoms, courses, and treatment are described. Existing research regarding the employment…

This article discusses the open-content movement in education. A small but growing movement of K-12 educators is latching on to educational resources that are "open," or free for others to use, change, and republish on web sites that promote sharing. The open-content movement is fueled partly by digital creation tools that make it easy…

Describes the use of ergonomics to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Describes ergonomics and how to identify ergonomic problems, conduct a job hazard analysis, and develop solutions. Also lists common ergonomic errors in schools. Provides an ergonomic checklist for employees…

Unless the teacher is working at an ergonomically designed workstation, using a computer can result in eyestrain, neck aches, backaches, and headaches. Unfortunately, most teachers do their keyboarding at desks, on lab tables, and in other spaces that were not designed with computer use in mind. Ergonomics is the science of adapting workstations,…

Highlights repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and vision problems related to computer use. Discusses ergonomics, design faults and needs of equipment, and ways to make adjustments. Provides tips for safe computer use. (AEF)

As librarians use new computer equipment and related procedures, "ergonomics"--the least stressful orientation and use of the body in relation to the work it performs--becomes more important. Describes thirteen steps that employees can take to make their job experience more comfortable, safe, and efficient. (AEF)

Defines ergonomics and discusses design and environmental considerations. Suggests work-space requirements for: tables, chairs, monitor height, ambient noise and light, electricity, and environmental hazards. Includes sources for additional information related to ergonomic design. (AEF)

Discusses online resources on ergonomics for librarians seeking to improve working environments or planning for staff and public work areas. A sidebar lists electronic addresses for 10 online sites for information including: World Wide Web sites, the Library of Congress gopher, archives on avoiding typing injuries, and electronic mailing lists.…

VITAL (Vision Impaired Task and Assignment Lexicon) is an integrated computerized system that performs workplace design tasks for visually impaired workers. VITAL consists of three modules: ergonomics consultation, disability index, and work measurement. Evaluation indicated that VITAL could be used as a tool to help nonprofessional vocational…

Presents ideas about how the workplace affects job performance, how to diagnose workplace-related problems, and how to make modest improvements. Highlights include: workplace-imposed limits on performance; the mental and physical steps of work; screening behavior; how adaptation interferes with performance; task- and human-based workspaces;…

Current library automation practices and new technologies have forced library managers to seek some means of reducing carpal tunnel syndrome, and a case study of Texas A&M's library provides insights. Highlights include identifying and assessing the injuries, adjusting work surfaces, testing and selecting new keyboards, and developing…

Discusses possible risks to workers using visual display terminals (VDTs), standards relating to VDTs, the provisions of the European Community Directive concerning minimum health and safety standards, how the standards are being interpreted in the United Kingdom, and implications for libraries. A workplace assessment questionnaire is appended.…

Poorly planned implementation of microcomputers has been shown to increase stress symptoms. Concerns have also been raised about the impact of new technology on the quality of the work environment. Programming expertise alone is not sufficient to prevent these problems. This paper therefore describes the role that psychologists can play in…

Traces how technological changes affect the architecture of the workplace. Traces these effects from the industrial revolution up through the computer revolution. Offers suggested designs for the computerized office of today and tomorrow. (JM)