The typical way to enter information
into a computer is though the use of a keyboard and a
mouse. When an individual has a motor control and/or a
visual disability, alternative input devices may be
needed. There are a variety of alternative and adapted
keyboards and mice available on the market. In
addition, the Universal Access Tools available for
Macintosh provide some built-in access features that
may assist individuals with motor and or visual
impairments. If this software is not preinstalled it
may be necessary to install from the iMac System
Software.
Easy Access
The
Easy Access control panel offers a number of options to
help control functions of the mouse, the ability to
hold multiple keys down, and conversion of text to
speech.
Speakable Items
Another application available with your iMac is
Speakable Items that allows visually impaired or
learning disabled students to operate the computer
through voice commands so they can access the same
curricula as others.
Alternative Keyboards
As the primary input device currently available
with computers, there are a variety of alternative
solutions for students to respond to the needs of
lessons. The IntelliKeys keyboard provides a larger
surface area for students who have difficulties with
motor control. The Little Fingers keyboard, as it
sounds, provides smaller keys for smaller hands, while
the BAT One-Handed keyboard provides full keyboard
access for students with the use of only one hand.
Portable Word Processors
Portable word processors give students an
alternative mode for note taking and word processing.
Most interface directly with a printer. Use is
appropriate when portability and access needs in more
than one location are an issue.
Overlays
A variety of keyboard overlays are available
for a variety of special needs such as Braille, larger
images of keys, and special functions that can be
programmed into the computer using special software.
Mouse Alternatives
The other primary input device is the mouse. A range of
mouse alternatives is available to help provide a less
restrictive environment for students inputting
information for lessons. These alternatives include
scroll wheels and track balls that make it easier for
students who have difficulty with motor control to
handle the mouse.
HeadMouse
Another type of mouse is a head mouse that
tracks a student's head movement to activate and
control the computer application program.
Touch Window
Touch windows also provide a mouse alternative
by allowing students to directly touch the screen to
activate and control the computer application program.
Switches
In some
cases individuals with severe motor disabilities cannot
operate any type of adapted keyboard or mouse. In these
cases, a computer can be operated with a switch used in
conjunction with a software scanning program. Switches
come in all shapes and sizes and are designed for
multiple access points on the body, including hand,
foot, head, eyebrow, and mouth.
Word Prediction Software
Word prediction software (Co:Writer) is
designed to reduce the number of keystrokes an
individual needs to type a word. For example, when the
initial letter of a word is typed the program generates
a list of possible words based on previous user history
and the context of the sentence. If the desired word is
displayed, the user only needs to type the number in
front of the word to complete the material categories wit a similar look and feel throughout the materials.
(See Assistive Technology Training Materials for more extensive information.)
Input Devices or Methods
