Monday, May 18, 2009

Tutorial 7: Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is "any item, piece of equipment or product system whether aquired commercially or off the shelf, modified or customised that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" (Cook & Hussey, 2000).

A Clevy Keyboard is a brightly coloured keyboard, with different colours for different keys. It has been designed to be ideal for children to use when learning about writing and computer skills. It allows children to get used to using a computer more easily. The keys on this keyboard are larger than normal making them easier for a child with motor control issues to use. The coloured keys also make it ideal for children with visual impairments to use. They keyboard is very sturdy so it can withstand bangs and knocks.

Features:
• keytops 4 times larger than standard
• lowercase charactors easily recognised by children
• sturdy construction
• cheerful colours making it attractive for kids to use
• a lower number of keytops to reduce confusion
• vertical layout of keytops
• Clevy function keys tool CD, install on your PC to use the function keys with the Clevy keyboard
(Star Educational, n.d.).
A keyboard glove is available to protect the board from dirt and dust. A keygaurd is also available for children with motor skill issues in order to prevent them from hitting two keys at once.

The keyboard can be connected to both PC's and MacsThis product costs $140.

References:
Cook, A.M., & Hussey, S.M. (2000). Assistive technologies: principles and practice. St Louis: Mosby
'Star Educational'. (n.d.). Retrieved on 21 May, 2009, from 200http://www.star-educational.co.nz/view_details.php?detail=true&cat=73&subcat=&id=170

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