Inclusion in the clinic: A mixed methods study of left‐handed student's perceptions of using cordless keyboards

Abstract

Purpose/objectivesLittle is written on obstacles for left‐handed students in the dental clinic. This mixed methods study evaluates the experiences of using cordless keyboards for left‐handed dental students.MethodsResearchers purchased four Logitech K400 Plus wireless keyboards. Using Qualtrics, a survey software, a pre‐survey was sent out at the beginning of the spring semester prior to introducing the cordless keyboards. A post‐survey circulated at the end of the semester. Quantitative analysis statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics. Researchers conducted a thematic analysis of the qualitative survey responses.ResultsTwenty‐three left‐handed D3 and D4 dental students were asked to participate in a survey about cordless keyboards. The pre‐survey had a 100% response rate, and the post‐survey had a 71% response rate. The surveys indicated that left‐handed students often face a range of barriers in clinical settings, including ergonomic challenges to enter data, difficulty managing time due to double entry of data on right‐handed equipment, and feelings of psychological unsafety due to fear for asking for support. The most significant finding was as follows: not only did the cordless keyboard assist clinical performance, but the cordless keyboard project also helped students feel heard and validated as left‐handed learners.ConclusionsResearchers recommend that educators prioritize the inclusion of left‐handed learners through various practices like making adjustments to physical spaces and creating inclusive environments where all learners feel supported.