Laptop computing: a survival kit

Many schools require students to undertake more Web-based learning to develop creativity, enquiry and independent learning skills.

The humble pen and pencil are now playing second fiddle to the laptop. But using computers and laptops for hours every day could harm your health.

Teens are now beginning to develop similar problems to adults: eye strain, neck and shoulder stiffness. What's more, the keyboard of a laptop is smaller, which puts even more strain on the wrists and fingers, which could lead to repetitive strain injury (RSI) in these muscles.

Several studies have shown heavy computer use and related near-vision tasks puts children at risk of early myopia, or shortsightedness.

Unfortunately, laptops aren't designed ergonomically since the computer screen and keyboard are joined and cannot be positioned independently for reading and typing. You end up either with a bad neck and head posture or a bad hand posture.

Despite the name, your lap is not the best place to put your laptop. If you can afford it, invest in some ergonomic accessories such as a laptop desk, a laptop stand or adjustable laptop computer arms that can be clamped to your desk at home or fixed onto a wall. These let you raise and tilt the laptop screen to the right height and eye level, allowing you to type more comfortably by letting you use your wrists in a more neutral position.