Students are different and this is evident when trying to decide which technology is right for that specific student. The assistive technology continuum is the full range of technology from low tech to high tech. Low-tech is where the consideration for assistive technology should start and progress to medium-tech and finally to high-tech solutions. Students must be treated individually as there are no hard and fast rules to determining which technology fits with a specific student.
There are major types of alternative keyboards and characterisitics of students who would benefit from such keyboards. Here is a chart that explains the adaption, type, and student characterisitc that would benefit most.
Low Tech Adaption: Type: Student characteristics:
Keyboard Label Larger letter Have visual/perceptual issues/low vision
High contrast colors Have low vision
Braile Blind/Braile Reader
Blank Have cognitive deficits/visual perceptual/attention issues
Selecting/Pointing Devices Handheld dowel Unable to isolate a finger
Mouthsticks Good head control
Chinsticks/Headsticks
Keyguards Acrylic or metal Need targeting assistance
Use selecting/pointing device
Need wrist support
Moisture Guards Transparent Tendency to spill/drool
Printed with key labels Have low vision
Source: Dell,
A; Newton, G and Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in the
Classroom: Enhancing the School Experience of Students with
Disabilities. Pearson Education.
I like how you included that teachers should consider low tech devices first before moving on to high tech devices. I feel it is very easy for IEP teams to suggest iPads or other tablet devices before considering other low-tech options first.
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