Alternative Keyboards

In a previous post I spoke about all of the features computers already provide.  I also mentioned how ingrained technology has become in our lives.  So it only makes sense that there would be even more ways to make computers accessible by all, right?  Here are some types of alternative keyboards and the characteristics of students who may benefit from them:

Types of Alternative Keyboards	Characteristics of Students for whom the features would help
Keyboard Labels (larger letters; higher contrast; tactile labels; blank labels to rid of distractions)	-Visual-perceptual difficulties or low vision (cannot see the letters, numbers, and symbols on the keys) -Blind students -Cognitive deficits -Attention Issues
Selecting/Pointing Devices (can be controlled by movements of the hand/arm, head or foot) -Mouthsticks, headsticks, and chinsticks *Can be as simple as a thick marker or pencil!	Physical Disabilities (cannot isolate a finger or use their hands at all)
Keyguards (acrylic or metal covers with holes that are placed atop the computer keyboard; generally, there is a corresponding hold for each of the keys)	-Poor Fine Motor Control -Experience hand or arm fatigue -Cognitive deficits -May be useful for some students using selecting/pointing devices
Moisture Guards* (keyboard protectors; can be clear but can also incorporate large-print, high-contrast key labels)	-Students who drool -Students who have a tendency to spill or drop things -Visual Impairments

*Keep in mind who is using this computer.  If it owned by the student it can be a more permanent addition to the keyboard.  If it is a shared computer a more temporary guard would be appropriate (and hygienic).

Some of these options, such as keyboard labels or a selecting device, are so simple!  Enlarging the letters on the keys can make a huge difference to someone who is visually impaired. Using a pencil to "type" for someone who is unable to isolate a finger, is a simple and inexpensive way to allow a student to use a computer. 

References: Dell, A. G., Newton, D. A. and Petroff, J. G. (2012).  Assistive Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities (2nd edition).  Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.