Pupils with severe learning or physical difficulties may need to
use alternative devices to assist them with every day activities.
SEMERC offer a wide range of switches to meet particular needs
although considerable training and practice may be required before
the operation becomes effective. For many pupils however, switch
use provides opportunities for independent work and/or a means
of communicating with others.
When supporting pupils it is essential that they understand the
cause and effect aspect; for example, "If I press this switch, something
will happen" and "If I press it when it is pointing to
this item, music will play". Developing this understanding,
and the capability to carry out the action, may take a long time
but it can help the pupil to develop more control of what is going
on around them.
Scanning software
Scanning software is invaluable for pupils who have such poor motor
control that moving a cursor to the desired part of a screen
is almost impossible. It automatically moves across the content
of the screen, highlighting each word or area as it passes over
it. As an area is highlighted, pressing a switch can activate
it. When working with pupils who need scanning, it is essential
to set the timing correctly so that they have enough time to
respond before it moves on to the next cell. The switch will
need to be positioned so that the user can operate it easily.
Useful resources
Mains controller
Switch box (method of connecting a switch to the computer)
Simple communication device which offers direct switch access
Simple communication device offering scan options
Switches
Switch-accessible software
Switch mounting board and mounts
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