“Because of impairment to muscle movement, coordination, and posture, individuals with cerebral palsy may have limited access to learning experiences and social interactions.”
Beukelman & Light, 2020, p.294
Access is the method that a student with limited motor control uses to select a cell on a communication device or to operate a device. Access methods can be direct or indirect. Direct selection involves using hands or eyes to operate the device. Indirect selection involves using an assistive interface device of some type between the person and the device to be controlled. Examples of assistive interface devices include switches such as the eye-blink switch, sip-n-puff switch, camera-based switch or other adaptive switches. Students with limited motor control need a guide to help determine the best switch to meet their needs. Occupational and/or Physical Therapists can be a great resource to help determine which type of switch to trial with the student.
Once a switch has been selected, the student needs lots of practice. To become a skilled user of a switch, the student needs multiple opportunities to practice using the switch. A variety of experiences will help the student better than just using one switch on one toy. Many times, one format can provide multiple opportunities. Literacy, especially self-selected reading of digital books, can provide the multiple opportunities needed to practice using a switch. Websites that work well with switches include:
Often classrooms or families are not able to provide a switch or switch interface for every student in all the locations where they could use one. One way to address this is to make a Do It Yourself (DIY) switch or switch interface. Sign up to learn how to make your own DIY switch and/or computer switch interface this summer. Request a time to learn how to make one. First 10 to register and attend a session will receive a free Makey Makey for making a customized computer switch interface.
References:
Beukelman, D. R., & Light, J. C. (2020). Augmentative & alternative communication: supporting children and adults with complex communication needs. Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
Bugaj, C. R., Janowski, K., Marotta, M., & Poss, B. (2021). Inclusive learning 365: Edtech strategies for every day of the Year. International Society for Technology in Education.
Kinds of switches. Accessible switches. (n.d.). Accessible Switches | Accessible switches