Computer Access
The definition of Computer Access is the process of transferring information into or out of a storage location or the time required to begin and complete the read and write functions of a specified piece of data.
low tech
Keyboard labels
Keyboard labels stick or lay on top of a standard keyboard to assist the student. These labels and overlays may enlarge the keys, or just the print on the keys. They may have different textures, or color code them for the user. There are truly endless possibilities with labels and overlays that may assist with computer access
Keyguards
Keyguards, very much like keyboard labels, can be created for the individual end user. A keyguard is a plastic or metal plate that sits above the keys on a standard keyboard. They can alter the texture or shape of the key. These are used for anyone who has difficulty selecting the correct keys.
Keyboard labels stick or lay on top of a standard keyboard to assist the student. These labels and overlays may enlarge the keys, or just the print on the keys. They may have different textures, or color code them for the user. There are truly endless possibilities with labels and overlays that may assist with computer access
Keyguards
Keyguards, very much like keyboard labels, can be created for the individual end user. A keyguard is a plastic or metal plate that sits above the keys on a standard keyboard. They can alter the texture or shape of the key. These are used for anyone who has difficulty selecting the correct keys.
Mid Tech
Trackballs
Trackballs were created to allow a student easy access to selecting items on the computer. Many trackballs have customized button functions which provide a pain-free and easier computing experience. There are hundreds of different trackballs available on-line and in stores. In addition, many of the companies offer completely customized options.
Joysticks or switches
A switch is generally used to do the equivalent of a mouse click. Switches are at the core of access technology. They can open computer access in many different ways, and can be easily customized for the student. A switch can be used by someones hands, feet, mouth, or any other part of their body that can function to change it.
Trackballs were created to allow a student easy access to selecting items on the computer. Many trackballs have customized button functions which provide a pain-free and easier computing experience. There are hundreds of different trackballs available on-line and in stores. In addition, many of the companies offer completely customized options.
Joysticks or switches
A switch is generally used to do the equivalent of a mouse click. Switches are at the core of access technology. They can open computer access in many different ways, and can be easily customized for the student. A switch can be used by someones hands, feet, mouth, or any other part of their body that can function to change it.
high tech
Head Pointing System
Available for both desktop and laptop computers. A device is placed on top of the monitor and tracks the movement of the student's head from the signals it receive from a wearable component.
Eye-gaze Systems
Eye-gaze systems use an infrared sensitive camera, or several cameras, determine where a student is looking and then position the mouse pointer at that spot. Using an on-screen keyboard the user can just look at the letters, words, or computer functions to be selected.
Available for both desktop and laptop computers. A device is placed on top of the monitor and tracks the movement of the student's head from the signals it receive from a wearable component.
Eye-gaze Systems
Eye-gaze systems use an infrared sensitive camera, or several cameras, determine where a student is looking and then position the mouse pointer at that spot. Using an on-screen keyboard the user can just look at the letters, words, or computer functions to be selected.
Resources
Dell, Amy G., Deborah A. Newton, and Jerry G. Petroff. AssistiveTechnology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall, 2008.Print.
Dell, Amy G., Deborah A. Newton, and Jerry G. Petroff. AssistiveTechnology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall, 2008.Print.