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Computer Access: Computer Screen

Factors to Consider

Consider the following when choosing the most suitable computer monitor for students with low vision:

  1. the student's residual vision including visual acuity, working distance, visual fatigue, etc.
  2. screen type/quality - matt / non-matt and high definition - non-matt screens may have a crisper image but glare may be increased
  3. screen size - a larger screen may increase the size of the image but may also increase head and upper body movements (causing increased fatigue) in order to access the information away from the centre of the screen
  4. computer set-up (display) eg screen resolution, foreground and background colour choices, enlarged font and/or cursor (click here for more information)
  5. lighting, glare etc in the room including use of non-glare or other colour filters
  6. position of student in relation to monitor (and the monitor in relation to the student) - a decrease in the working distance will increase the image size on the retina (known as “approach magnification”)
  7. adjustable viewing options - eg mounting the monitor on a moveable arm or positioning the laptop on a computer workstation with a wireless external keyboard/mouse (click here for more information)
  8. cost

If at all possible, it's best to try out the different combinations of monitors, screen resolution, working distance etc in the location(s) that the computer is to be used before purchase. Additional consideration should be given to optical correction which can reduce eye strain and fatigue (eg students with a refractive error may benefit from wearing or, in some cases, removing their prescribed spectacles).

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Website editor Deb Lewis, Statewide Vision Resource Centre - Victoria, Australia. Last updated September 2007.
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