Overview
What are alternative input devices? They are non-traditional products and methods for inputting text and mouse commands needed to operate software, manage files and navigate your computer desktop. The traditional input devices are the keyboard and mouse; for many people with physical disabilities these are awkward, slow or impossible to use.
When considering other alternatives, a thorough assessment of the student's physical skills and computer needs is needed. This is generally done by an occupational therapist who specializes in assistive technology, to ensure that the physical, cognitive, visual and ergonomic needs and factors are considered. Each of these technologies can meet a range of needs and each individual has unique needs and strengths. In this module, input devices will be suggested for specific disabilities or needs, however, a successful user/alternative input device match can best be made through an individualized assessment.
As we look at the variety of alternative input devices available, and you want to begin to explore the devices you may have available to you, don't forget to seek support from the individuals around you, including teachers, parents, therapists. If an assessment is available, take advantage of it (avoid the frustrations of repeated trial and errors), but if you see a possible solution, try it!
This section of the course will cover a broad range of commercial tools and technologies available to input text and mouse commands into a computer system. We will begin with simpler solutions and progress to the more complex and expensive. In each area you will be provided with illustrations of potential users of the input device as well as web resources for companies selling or developing the technology.
Selecting a computer access system for a student may entail choosing the assistive technology as well as the computer and all its components, or simply choosing the assistive technology which is compatible with the student's existing system.
Students who can benefit from alternative computer access systems include those who:
- have difficulty or cannot control a keyboard
- find it difficult to control a mouse
- have repetitive strain injuries
These difficulties may be:
- Congenital, meaning from birth, such as Cerebral Palsy (as in Case Study #1 )
- Acquired through an accident which results in an injury, such as quadriplegia (as in Case Study #2) or a disease process, such as Multiple Sclerosis
The computer input modifications required may be:
- Static, as the student's physical strengths and needs are stable or
- Flexible, as on-going modifications will be needed to meet the needs of a changing condition, as in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (as in Case Study #3) or improving literacy or educational skills.
Regardless of the student's input needs, remember that computer technology is changing rapidly and most computer systems will need to be replaced approximately every 3 - 5 years. Sometimes an older system still meets the student's needs, however, changes in operating systems and software compatibility often force upgrades to continue to exchange information with vocational or educational settings.
Think of the individuals you know using alternative input devices: how often have there been changes to their computer systems? What has been the need behind those changes?