What are the major types of alternative keyboards, and what are the characteristics of students for whom each type would be appropriate?

This is a focus question from Chapter 8 in our course textbook, “Assistive Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities”. This focus question will help teachers determine which keyboard adaptation will be the best for their students for better computer access. Keyboard labels can be created based on the student’s need. If the student is blind the keys can have tactile labels with Braille markings or if the student has visual perceptual difficulties the teacher can create labels with larger numbers with easy to see colors. Selecting and pointing devices can be used for students who have physical disabilities and cannot use one finger to press down on a key. Another adaptation is keyguards which can be bought or custom-made. Students with cognitive disabilities may succeed with a custom made keyguard where only certain keys have holes so unnecessary keys are not touched. Moisture guards can be used for students with multiple disabilities that drool or could spit on the keyboards. These moisture guards can be for long term or short term use. 

      

    

                            Keyguard                                                     Selecting/Pointing Device                  

Reference: Dell, A., & Newton, D. (2008). Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall.