Training & Demos

Training for products supported by the ACT Center is offered for individuals learning a new product or needing additional training. A list of all products that we support can be found at our Software Support page.

Each training session is customized for the individual. At the end of each training session, the trainer will evaluate your progress and determine the number of visits necessary to reach the goal.

There is no charge for MU students, faculty and staff. We also offer training for TAP-I supported customers. To make an appointment, call 573.884.2828.

Tips for Working at Home

Creating a healthy work environment when working at home, can help relieve muscle tension, improve focus and increase productivity. If your workstation is not setup properly, according to the Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA), long hours spent on the computer can be uncomfortable and painful.  Your surroundings (lighting and noise), equipment (furniture and technology), work habits, and health concerns all play a role in levels of efficiency.

It is important to understand the fundamentals of “best posture” in order to build a comfortable workstation and prevent injury. The goal is to alleviate tension on any of the muscles while working. The better you feel, the more productive you will be.

Self-Evaluate your Workstation
Refer to ACT Center’s website for tips to Evaluate Your Workstation.

Tips for Pain Relief 

If you experiencing pain in any of the following areas, explore the suggestions below:

  • Neck
    Sit or stand with the neck straight while typing, do NOT bend or tip forward.

    • Place laptop at eye level while using an external mouse and keyboard in your lap.
    • Look straight ahead, allowing only the eyes to look downward.
    • Enlarge text on screen for easier viewing.
    • Set camera or laptop at eye level for a Zoom meeting.
    • Use text-to-speech software to read aloud email or long documents.
  • Shoulders
    Sit or stand with relaxed shoulders while typing. Do NOT lift the shoulders or type on an elevated surface.

    • Keep elbows at a 90-degree angle while typing.
    • Place laptop, keyboard, or mouse in the lap to help relax neck and shoulder muscles.
    • Avoid leaning over or rounding shoulders while typing.
  • Back
    Sit or stand up straight with a supported back. Do NOT lean forward and put pressure on the lower back.

    • Use a supportive chair with a cushioned seat pan and a cushioned back for sitting.
    • Place a firm pillow on the lower back for extra lumbar support.
    • Sit back into the chair, recliner or sofa when typing.
    • Avoid leaning forward over the desk for typing or reading documents.
    • Use an anti-fatigue mat while standing to help cushion the feet, legs and lower back.
  • Wrist/Hands
    Keep wrists and hands straight while typing and mousing. Do NOT bend wrists upward while typing.

    • Keep wrists straight while typing.
    • Do NOT rest your wrist on the edge of the desk.
    • Use a different keyboard or mouse if uncomfortable or painful.
    • Try using speech recognition to dictate long documents.

Resources Available
If you have access to an adjustable standing desk, alternative keyboard or mouse, supportive chair, or anti-fatigue mat, these are all excellent tools for building a healthy workstation. If you are looking for something specific, there are many adjustable, supportive products available online at Amazon, Ergotron, Varidesk, and Ergoguys.

Creative Ideas with Household Items:

  • Heighten your monitor using a stack of books or sturdy box.
  • Build a footstool using old board games or books taped together.
  • Use a board game for your keyboard in your lap.
  • Adjust keyboard height for standing using an adjustable ironing board.
  • Use a foam kitchen mat as an anti-fatigue mat while standing.

Software Assistance:  

Remember…Take a Break!
One of the best things you can do for your body is move throughout the day. It is hard on your muscles and cardiovascular system, sitting for long hours at a time. Even if you cannot create the “ideal” workstation, you can still move and stretch throughout the day to relieve any muscle tension. Take a five-minute stretch break at least every hour. During lunchtime, take a walk, do some chores, or take in a yoga video.

Need More Assistance?
Additional help with your workstation is available through the Adaptive Computing Technology (ACT) Center Ergonomic Evaluation. An Ergonomics Specialist can evaluate your workstation, via Zoom, and make recommendations.

Workplace accommodations are another option for a long-term injury or disability. Please contact the Office of Accessibility and ADA for more information on how to Request Workplace Accommodations.