Last fall, fourth-semester computer science student Stine Havgaard Hansen faced a tough decision—either take a leave of absence or drop out of her studies. After multiple shoulder surgeries, she had to avoid using her right arm, making it nearly impossible to program with a standard keyboard. But thanks to a supportive lecturer, an inventive fellow student, and a strong community at the Department of Computer Science, she found a solution that allowed her to continue her education.
It was Stine’s lecturer, Clemens Nylandsted Klokmose, who initiated the process after she shared her challenge with him. He posted about Stine’s issue in an internal group, and both students and researchers contributed possible solutions. One of those who responded was Joakim Rosenfeldt Pedersen, an IT Product Development student, who offered to build a custom one-handed keyboard for Stine based on an existing open-source model.
A Project with a Big Impact
"I saw the post in our Facebook group and immediately knew it was something I could help with. I have built ergonomic keyboards in my free time before, and I found it an exciting challenge to develop a solution that could help a fellow student in a difficult situation," says Joakim.
Joakim took on the challenge and used his knowledge from IT Product Development to create a functional keyboard tailored to Stine’s needs. The project required technical expertise, components ordered from Australia, and close collaboration between Joakim and Stine. Assembling the keyboard itself took only about an hour, but the two have since worked together to fine-tune the setup and functions to best support her programming work.
"It all happened pretty quickly once we got the parts. Joakim spent a few hours assembling and adjusting it, and now I have a solution that works for me," Stine says.
For Stine, the experience has not only meant she can continue her studies—it has also confirmed how strong the sense of community at the department is.
"It’s really great to be a student at the Department of Computer Science. If you need help, there’s always someone willing to listen and find a solution. When Clemens shared my problem, several people immediately started coming up with ideas. And Joakim volunteered to build the keyboard—even though we didn’t know each other at all. That really shows what an amazing place this is to study," she says.
She also highlights the support she has received from her fellow students:
"I have a really good study group and a strong network at the department, which helps me a lot. It makes a huge difference. It means so much to be in a place where you never have to face a challenge alone."
Joakim also sees the project as an important experience that demonstrates how technology can make a real difference in people’s lives.
"It’s been amazing to see how something as simple as a customized keyboard can have such a big impact. And it’s fantastic that, with open-source technology and a bit of technical skill, we can create solutions that would otherwise cost thousands of kroner. This keyboard only cost about 500 DKK in materials, but for Stine, it means she can continue her education," he says.
The custom-designed keyboard has not only enabled Stine to continue her studies—it has also opened her eyes to how technology can be adapted to make everyday life easier for people with special needs.
"I’m truly grateful for all the help I’ve received, which has allowed me to stay in my program. The keyboard hasn’t just given me a practical solution—it has also reignited my passion for my studies. I no longer feel limited by my physical challenges but instead see new possibilities," she concludes.
