COMPUTER ACCESS THROUGH THE USE OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGYThe computer is a fantastic educational tool, especially in the classroom, but sometimes children face obstacles that don't allow them to gain easy access to a computer. Assistive technology can help children of varying abilities profit from the benefits of utilizing all a computer can offer. |
A Big Mack switch can be hooked up and used instead of a mouse on our computers. This can be helpful for children who may not possess the fine motor skills needed to maneuver a computer mouse. This can be used in applications for reading books, pressing the big mack switch can tell the computer to "turn the page.” (Idea from: "Welcome to my Preschool" video) |
Special, adaptive keyboards can be used for children with varying abilities in terms of motor skills. A company called "MALTRON" manufactures many different kinds of keyboards, for example they sell "single-handed keyboards, head/mouth stick keyboards, and expanded keyboards for physically disabled and visually impaired users." These keyboards could help children gain access to the computer through a keyboard, making them feel more independent and autonomous. |
By: Cara Clinton
Resources:
Computer/Wheelchair JPEG: http://moodle.nesd.k12.pa.us/course/view.php?id=63
Software JPEG: http://www.amazon.com/Nuance-NaturallySpeaking-Recognition-Software-Microphone/dp/B004SIEECK
Big Mack JPEG:http://www.childrensrehabengineeringteam.com/grants06.htmMaltron JPEG: http://mindprod.com/bgloss/maltron.html
Keyboard info: http://www.infinitec.org/work/tools/singlehandtyping.htm
Welcome to my preschool Part I and II (n.d.). [Video File]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbcS0P65wC8