Assessing Student's Needs for Assistive Technology (ASNAT)

Chapter 2 – Computer Access
• Word Prediction-This software which can be used on a computer which shows lists of words
that the student may be trying to spell as the keyboarding takes place. Words can be selected
from the list so that the student doesn’t have to finish keying them. An example is Co:Writer ®
4000. It may be integrated into a word processor as well, eliminating the need for a separate
program, e.g., Read and Write Gold).
• Abbreviation Expansion-This software expands predetermined abbreviations into full words,
phrase or sentences as the student types. (e.g., Shorthand for Windows) Most word processors
can be set up to perform in a similar way through the use of macros, however they tend to be
more complex to use.
♦ Alternative Keyboards-Many times a student has multiple needs that cannot be addressed with the
adaptations mentioned above. An alternative keyboard is another option. These keyboards typically
can be programmed to include a custom set of adaptations. A variety of alternative keyboards are
available, including:
• Expanded keyboards (e.g., IntelliKeys ® , Discover:Board ® )-These are larger and are custom
programmable so that location, function, and size of keys can be changed for individual users.
• Miniature keyboard (e.g., TASH Mini keyboard)-The keys are much smaller so the individual
with limited range of motion can access the whole keyboard with one hand.
• Light pointer keyboards (e.g., Light Board.)-keys are activated by directing a beam of light from
a head mounted pointer to an onscreen keyboard or special keyboard.
• Onscreen keyboards- Keyboarding can also be accomplished by selecting keys from a keyboard
which is shown on the computer screen. Software that generates an image of a keyboard on the
screen is referred to as an onscreen keyboard (e.g., OnScreen, Discover:Screen ® , ScreenDoors
2000). The user makes selections using a mouse or mouse emulating device. When the student
cannot use his or her hands to activate the onscreen keyboard, there are head-controlled mouse
emulators (e.g., Head Master Plus, HeadMouse ® , and Tracker 2000). The Head Master Plus
uses a headset and control unit working together to measure the rotation of the user’s head and
translate it into cursor movements on the screen. A puff switch acts as a left mouse button and
adding personal switches can access the center and right mouse button. The HeadMouse ® is a
wireless optical sensor that tracks a tiny and disposable dot that is placed on the user’s forehead
or glasses. The optical sensor then translates the movements into movements of the computer
cursor. The Tracker 2000 works very much like a HeadMouse ® , using a small dot on the
forehead or glasses.
♦ Indirect Selection
• Morse Code- In the last two decades Morse code has proven to be a fast and effective means of
inputting information into the computer for some individuals with disabilities, especially those
who use a single switch in order to produce written material. For example using a Sip and Puff
switch, a user might enter words by spelling them out with puffs and sips, with a sip equaling a
dot and a puff equaling a dash. A switch interface device is required to use a switch for this
purpose. For more information the reader is referred to Modern Morse code in rehabilitation and
education: New applications in assistive technology by Tom King (2000).
Assessing Students’ Needs for Assistive Technology (2004) 68