CT006-3-1-CITW
Computing and IT in the Workplace
Tutorial 4 Human Aspects of Computing
1. Explain some of the reasons why systems fail.
a. Inadequate requirements b. Lack of user participation
c. Inadequate resources d. Unrealistic expectation
e. Lack of support at senior level f. Changing specifications
g. Lack of planning
2. List and explain some of the health concerns related to computer use and
recommendations to overcome them
a. Computer vision syndrome (CVS)eye and vision problems
i. Preventive Measure - Take an eye break, look at far-distanced objects, blink
eyes every 5 seconds, place the display device at arms length away with the
top level of the screen at eye level or below
b. Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
i. Wrist, hand, arm, and neck injuries as a result of forced muscle groups
through fast, repetitive motions
ii. Typing on a keyboard-based device (computer, musical instrument)
iii. Moving groceries items over a scanner
1. Preventive measure: change in technique of operating the instruments,
take a rest
c. Computer addictionwhen computer consumes entire social life
i. Preventive measure: Lifestyle change, Work and Play balance, Reprioritize
priorities
d. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)inflammation of nerve that connects
forearm to palm
i. Preventive Measure: Take frequent breaks during computer session, use wrist
rest, exercise hands and arms, exercise hands and arms, minimize number of
times you switch between mouse and keyboard
e. Tendinitisinflammation of tendon due to repeated motion
i. Preventive Measure: Take frequent breaks during computer session, use wrist
rest, exercise hands and arms, exercise hands and arms, minimize number of
times you switch between mouse and keyboard
f. Back & Neck Pains
i. Preventive Measure: use adjustable, special-purpose furniture
3. Define Green Computing. List and discuss methods that could be used to reduce the
usage of electricity and environmental waste.
Green Computing is the discipline that aims to reduce electricity and environmental
waste while using computers
a. Purchase computers that comply to Energy Star rating
b. Turn off computers and devices when not in use
c. Use recycled paper
d. Recycle toner cartridges
e. Dispose computers and electronic devices in an sustainable/environment friendly
manner ie return to It vendors for safe disposal
4. Undertake a research and explain the term ergonomics. In your research, explore how
it could be incorporated into the working environment.
a. Applied science devoted to comfort, efficiency, and safety in workplace. A discipline
focused on making products and tasks comfortable and efficient for the user
b. Ensure computers are placed at the recommended distance for use ie using chairs
that are adjustable, table at the recommended position for comfort to the arm and
eyes
c. Fitting job demands to the capabilities and limitations of workers. For example, for
tasks requiring heavy materials handling, use of mechanical assist devices to
reduce the need for manual handling would be designed into the process
d. Other aspects of design should be considered including load design, layout of the
workplace to allow for ease of access when using mechanical aids and eliminating
unnecessary lifting activities
5. Discuss 6 reasons why HCI is important.
a. HCI is important as it concerns with the user performance (Human Factors and
Ergonomics) to produce usable and safe system as well as functional system. It is to
improve the following factors:
i. Safety does not endanger human health
ii. Utility develop the correct functionality in meeting the system requirements
iii. Effectiveness - do the right thing for example provide courteous service to
attain customer satisfaction
iv. Efficiency - do things right by eliminating and removing unwanted processes
that can cut down on the processing time
v. Usability - ease of use
vi. Simplicity user friendly features that provide simple and clear instructions
making understanding and interpreting information easy
