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Introduction
If you already have evidence that conventional writing methods are not the way forward for a student, then accessing a keyboard of some description may often be the next avenue of exploration. As with every support decision in this field, the pros and cons of any particular device or method need to be researched and examined before a decision is taken. This resource is an attempt to help the user and support team by providing information and pointers about the keyboarding equipment available.
Making conventional keyboards more accessible
A conventional keyboard can be just as much a millstone to some users as pencil and paper. However, with careful matching to the needs of the student, their effective use can liberate many learners. Remember that using a conventional keyboard successfully with speed and accuracy depends on:-
- The student acquiring keyboard skills
- The student being encouraged to maintain a correct seating position
- The student accessing suitable software to assist the writing process
Before discounting standard keyboards as means of access, check whether the following modifications will make a significant difference:
Keyguards
Where students have difficulty with a tremor or hand control you may consider a keyguard. A keyguard is a metal or plastic plate which fits snugly over the keyboard of the computer with holes at the key positions, it helps reduce unwanted key presses and increases the computer’s tolerance of the student resting on the keyboard! They can be purchased to fit most standard desktop and compact keyboards (and some portables). Make absolutely sure that the keyguard you plan to buy will fit the intended keyboard. If this proves a problem, you can buy a keyguard with a matching replacement keyboard as a set. Available in the UK from Special Access Systems , SEMERC or Inclusive Technology.
Keyboard gloves
Clear flexible slip-on plastic gloves pre-moulded to fit the keyboard shape exactly. Not only do they keep unwanted liquids off the keyboard, they probably are far more hygienic to use as well. Inclusive Technology can supply gloves for over 2,000 types of keyboard.
Lower case keyboard stickers
Upper and lower case stickers are available in a variety of styles with yellow, black or white backgrounds for young or visually impaired users. To avoid too many sticky fingers when the stickers are peeled on and off, only use the lower case letters when they are significantly different or confusing, for example, Ll. Available from Inclusive Technology.
Accessibility options in Windows 95/98
This facility, found within the control panel of Windows 95/98 software, gives useful control over the way the keyboard behaves. Sticky keys is useful for one-handed users, and Filter keys is useful for students with co-ordination difficulties. The appearance of the background, size and style of text on screen can all be changed to suit needs. Most of us accept what we have bought as it comes out of the box, but a little exploration can significantly customise the machine to fit the user.
Keyboard splitters
Although not strictly a keyboard accessing aid, it is worth mentioning these adapters that enable you to use two keyboards on a computer at the same time. Splitters can be useful in the classroom where it is not always convenient to plug and unplug keyboards for the daily use of any number of children or even at home where all the family may have differing needs. The Co-pilot adapter from Keytools can be used with any two keyboards.
Alternative keyboards
If a standard keyboard does not provide an accessing solution, then there is a range of alternative keyboards available that deal with a number of problems. A selection is described below.
Compact keyboards
Many students find it much easier to span a compact keyboard. These smaller keyboards work well with children who find it a long way from q to p, and are also very useful for students with athetoid cerebral palsy. The Cherry slimline keyboard is about the same size as a laptop keyboard and can be attached to a computer if a student needs to use a keyguard. Special Access Systems, Enabling Computer Supplies and Inclusive Technology stock the keyguard, which is close fitting and very effective. The Tash Mini Keyboard is a compact membrane-type keyboard which comes in qwerty (standard) or frequency (most used keys in the most accessible positions) layouts. It also allows for control of the mouse pointer from the keyboard and has programmable key delays. Available from Cambridge Adaptive Communication.
Larger keyboards
The Big Keys Plus keyboard for PC works well for the student who needs a bigger key to aim for. The lower case keys are one inch square - about four times the size of standard keys. There are a variety of key layouts and colours, and it also has shift, backspace, and Internet keys. Big Keys Plus and its associated keyguard are available from Keytools or Inclusive Technology.
The popular Intellikeys keyboard is an adaptive membrane keyboard especially useful for those with physical and learning difficulties. It is relatively easy to set up and use, and is sensitive enough to be pressed by a hand, foot, head, or pointing device. Keyguards are available. In general, if software runs with an ordinary keyboard and mouse, it will run with Intellikeys. It incorporates a keyboard splitter and facilities for use with two switches, and comes with 6 different overlays, from arrow keys to a qwerty layout. Overlay software and a 3000 image library of pictures and symbols are useful for constructing customised overlays. PC and Macintosh versions are available from Inclusive Technology.
Concept Keyboards (both A3 and A4) are still available, and the Concept Universal Plus has an improved case and is compatible with all previous universal Concept keyboards. Leads for use with BBC, Acorn PC and Macintosh are included. The Concepts can sometimes be difficult for students with physical difficulities to access and they don't have the same range of access facilities as Intellikeys. Consider the Concept Informatrix board if you need to make irregular overlays, as its 4,096 cells allow you to use maps, pictures, etc. It now has an Infra red link which gives opportunities for users to work more easily in environments not specially adapted for their particular needs. Concept keyboards are available from Penny+Giles.
Other alternative keyboards
There are many other variations on a keyboard, among them the following:
Ergonomically-designed one-handed keyboards are available for single left or right hand use, as is a special variant for operation with a headpointer or a mouth stick. These keyboards are relatively bulky and the layout of the keys is unusual. Available from Enabling Computer Supplies or Keytools.
Waterproof and sandproof flexible keyboards are supplied rolled up in a cardboard tube! They are flexible, resilient and scrubbable and have the standard layout of a conventional keyboard. You may need to test one to ensure the pressure sensitivity is acceptable to the students, as it requires heavy pressure and gives no auditory feedback. Available from Inclusive Technology.
Programs to assist keyboarding
Learning to type depends very much on the student. It is always most successful when it is their own decision, but often persuasion and the promotion of its usefulness are needed. There are many programs to choose from, and it may be a good idea to present the student with a suitable shortlist and let them make the final choice. In cases of physical difficulty, touch typing is rarely appropriate, but keyboard familiarity is essential. Visually impaired students depend on good keyboarding skills, so consider exploring this option at an early stage - consult the RNIB for guidance. A note to class teachers - A pair of headphones may make these programs more classroom friendly!
Typing programs for older students
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing has been a longstanding choice for older students and adults, and is widely available. Older versions are often heavily discounted, search the magazine ads.
Type to Learn offers reinforcmentreinforcement through spelling, grammar and punctuation, options for customisation, tracking and reviewing of students, with progress and accuracy reports, plus its own word processor and supportive graphics. Available from REM or TAG.
Touch Type has good use of graphics ,stereo sound and sampled speech. Available from REM.
Kaz has well structured and motivating to students, incorporating, video, graphics and verbal instructions. They claim it is possible to learn all the 26 letter keys in 90 minutes. Available from REM.
Typing programs for younger students
Jump Ahead Typing, Botley the Robot helps with all the exercises, colourful and comprehensive. Available from REM.
Kid Keys for ages 3-7 has a friendly monster to guide younger children through the keyboard exercises and games. Available from TAG.
First Keys has seven well-structured activities that include, picture matching, initial letter matching, find keys, word building and missing letters. New word lists can be entered and a simple record sheet is available. This is an excellent early literacy resource, which focuses on keyboarding as well. Available from Widget Software.
Five Finger Typist is designed for students who can only use one hand. Suits both the left or right hand. It features graded lessons with animation to show hand movements, and a printable progress report. Available from REM and Inclusive Technology.
Other useful programs
Clickit is a piece of software which provides mouseless access to any number of computer programs, whether you are using Intellikeys, a standard keyboard or a switch. Clickit allows you to make switch accessible scanning adaptations and overlays for your software, hotspots are created which can be positioned precisely to click on key parts of a program. For example, students are able to automatically scan to read a book via a keyboard or an overlay, and see the actions beneath the active locations. Audio feedback can be added by assigning a sound to the hotspot. Available from Inclusive Technology.
And finally, a plug for keyboard shortcuts! Control P to print Control S to save are good starting points.
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Keyboards and Keyboard Access