Part 5: Computer activities and software for switch users

The use of switches for computer access falls into two main categories - cause and effect activities and activities requiring scanning.

Cause and effect
One switch press or a series of presses are required to receive a reward. Some software also enables a second switch to be introduced, with the user being required to press the switches alternately. The student learns that each switch carries out a different function, and the technique is a good precursor to the process required for scanning activities. Useful software for the introduction of a second switch includes Switch On (from Semerc) and Switch Suite: Build (from Inclusive Technology).

Scanning
In order to progress to more cognitively demanding activities on the computer, scanning is required. The concept of scanning is best introduced using two switches, where one switch moves the scanning box around the screen and the second switch selects the target when it is reached. Using this method, the user is in full control of the computer - nothing will happen unless they press a switch, thereby enabling them to relax and enjoy the activity.

A suggestion for users who do not have the physical ability to control two switches accurately is to start by giving them use of the scanning switch only. They can demonstrate their understanding by using their one switch to scan to their chosen target and then stopping. A helper can activate the second switch.

It is possible to use scanning software with one switch (ie the computer does the scanning automatically) but only if the user has accurate and immediate control over their switch! The timing control involved in one-switch scanning is often unachievable for children with severe physical difficulties.

It is possible for a switch user to ultimately gain full control over a computer (see part 6).

Switch accessible computer software

This is a just a small selection of switch software that illustrates the breadth of the available ranges. Keep looking for anything that particularly suits and pleases your students, and browse the catalogues from the suppliers listed at the bottom of the page.

Cause and effect software

For younger students:

First Looks Patterns
For: Windows/Mac
Comments: Clear black and white imagery, colour options available.
Supplier: Inclusive Technology
‘Lead to Kelly maintaining prolonged eye contact with the images on screen’

Make it Happen
For: Windows
Comments: Relevant to KS1
Supplier: Widgit
‘Sam laughs and jumps every time she makes the clown appear’

My Noisy Colouring Book
For: Windows
Comments: Relevant to KS1 and 2. Makes sounds as pictures are selected and blends colours during painting.
Supplier: REM
‘Always chosen by 8 out of 10 switch users in my group but noisier than Whiskas!’

Press to Play - Speedy
For: Windows/Mac
Comments: Relevant to KS1 and 2. Features Speedy, a wheel chair user. Good opportunities for language work
Supplier: Inclusive Technology

For older students:

Tap Here
For: Windows
Comments: Single switch operated animations, press to play or press to catch a moving object - can be customised for any user because you can use your own pictures.
Supplier: REM

Radsounds
For: Windows
Comments: This program recommends good external speakers and perhaps it would be better to let the student be the DJ while you withdraw out of immediate earshot! Cause and effect mode can be adopted and the latest version allows you to add your own music.
Supplier: Liberator, REM

Switch progressions - Teenage
For: Windows/Mac
Comments: Age appropriate cartoon animations of real life situations.
Supplier: Liberator

SwitchIt! Series: Gadgets/Diggers
For: Windows/Mac
Comments: Build up pictures of gadgets and large commercial vehicles, then see and hear them working.
Supplier: Inclusive Technology

Software requiring scanning:

Choices
For: Windows/Acorn
Comments; This is a well-structured set of exercises having the added bonus of being able to create your own activities.
Supplier: Widgit

SwitchIt! Series: Opposites
For: Windows/Mac
Comments: Provides simple and fun scanning activities.
Supplier: Inclusive

Suppliers:

Inclusive Technology Tel 01457 819790 www.inclusive.co.uk
Semerc Tel 0161 827 2887 www.semerc.com
REM Tel 01458 245700 www.r-e-m.co.uk
Widgit Tel 01926 885303 www.widgit.com

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