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The student has difficulty with the Keyboard...
The keyboard is the most common method of controlling the computer and for most people, it is also the fastest and easiest to use. Since almost all computers are supplied with a keyboard, it is also generally the cheapest access method. Therefore, it is usually worth exploring keyboard adaptations and different types of keyboard before turning to other methods of access.
If a pupil has difficulty in accessing a standard keyboard, extra demands are being placed on them. For some, adjusting seating, the position of the monitor, or providing an adjustable table are sufficient measures. Other pupils may have poor finger or hand control but can still target individual keys. Or keys are pressed unintentionally because of involuntary tremor. For those for whom a standard keyboard is almost, but not quite, appropriate, a range of adaptations is available. It is often surprising how fairly minimal adaptations can open up access opportunities for pupils who initially appear to require major and expensive adaptations.
As well as adaptations to standard keyboards, alternative keyboards are available. These include miniature and ‘expanded’ keyboards as well as devices designed from ergonomic principles. Pupils who use voice output communication aids may also be able to control the computer using the communication device in place of the computer keyboard.
Click the links below to find out more about these adaptations and alternatives (the products mentioned are not necessarily recommendations or endorsements but rather examples of equipment and software). You can also look at a chart that summarises common difficulties with keyboarding and suggests some tools and techniques that might help.
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