Computer assistive technology like keyboards can be
adapted and customized to fit individual needs that will enable students to be
successful. This post addresses UDL guideline 4.2 to optimize access to tools
and assistive technologies.
EXPANDED-
Covers
large surface area, students need accurate keystrokes, students have poor fine
motor skills, enable hand/foot typing
MINI-
Covers smaller surface area; students have motor impairments, neuromuscular disorder,
spinal muscular atrophy, restricted ROM
CUSTOMIZE
– Can
be configured to meet student individual needs; limited tasks or commands, standard overlay modifications
ONE-HANDED-
Use of full keyboard, student needs good finger dexterity; student has the use
of only one hand
ON-SCREEN
–image
of keyboard on the monitor students position the mouse on the keyboard;
students do not have motor skills necessary for keyboard
Besides
alternative keyboards mouse emulators are available for students with physical
disabilities. The user does not have to type in, memorize computer commands, or
use a mouse pointer; instead the student can use their most controlled
movements.
Trackballs- A ball is
housed in a stationary base and can be rotated; student has limited ROM and
good fine motor.
Joysticks- Game joystick converted
into mouse little movement; student with limited control of fingers and hands.
Head-pointing-monitor
tracks student head movement from signal on a wearable device; students cannot
use their hands for a mouse.
Eye-Gaze-
The movement of a student’s eyes direct the mouse; student with no reliable
muscle movement.
This
blog is meant to provide the reader with the various keyboard and mouse systems
that are available through assistive technology for use by students with disabilities
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