Keyboards Galore!!

Looking back at the assistive technology continuum, it has several types of keyboards ranging from low tech to high-tech. These keyboards are modified to help students with different disabilities, so that they can use the computers. Here are examples of several different types of keyboards used as assistive technology devices.

1. Expanded Keyboards:

These keyboards are large and oversized. There are two types of layouts for expanded keyboards, QWERTY layout and alphabetical layout. These keyboards help students who have poor fine motor control, and need a large target area.

2.     Mini Keyboards:

These keyboards are just like it sounds, mini. They help students who have motor impairments that restrict their range of motion, students who have only use of one hand, have good targeting skills, and want a layout that is similar to their peers. Students with muscular dystrophy disabilities and spinal muscular atrophy would benefit greatly from using mini keyboards.

       3.      One-handed Keyboards:

Similar to the mini keyboard the one-handed keyboard would benefit students who have good dexterity in only one hand. They also have good targeting skills. Students that use this keyboard have a limited range of motion as well. 

4.    On-screen Keyboards:

On-screen keyboards place an image of the keyboard on the computers monitor. These computers provide modifications for students who do not have the motor skills to control a mouse or cannot use a keyboard. Students who struggle with visually refocusing when they transfer their attention from the monitor to the keyboard would also benefit from using this type of keyboard.

 

Reference:

Dell, A. G., Newton, D. A., & Petroff, J. G. (2012). Assistive technology in the classroom: enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (2nd ed.). Boston: Pearson.