|
Information
About Switches
A
Switch is a hardware device
that allows a user with little
motor control to operate a computer
or other electrical device.
(adapted from information found
in Crick Software Catalogue)
Switch
Interface is hardware that
allows the convenient connection
of a switch to a computer.
(adapted from information found
in Crick Software Catalogue)
Switch
Access helps users with a
disability towards an equal opportunity
to access the computer program.
Many of today's products have
built in switch access. Switches
are usually connected via the
serial port switch box. You can
use any simple on/off switch.
With single switch access, items
on the screen are automatically
scanned. When the desired item
is highlighted, the user presses
the switch, which then acts as
a mouse click. With a two-switch
scan, instead of scanning automatically,
the user presses the second switch
to advance the scan. Switch access
increases independence enabling
the user to operate programs,
stereos, simple machines . . .
for themselves.
(adapted from information found
in Crick Software Catalogue)
Modes
of Control determine the amount
of time the appliance operates
once the individual activates
the switch. Ideal for individuals
of all abilities, including those
who can't maintain pressure on
a switch or those who continually
activate the switch.
Direct Mode keeps the appliance
"on" only while the switch is
activated. The direct mode is
often preferred for individuals
just learning cause-effect.
Timed Seconds Mode allows
the appliance to run for a set
amount of time from one to 60
seconds. Ideal for quick activities.
Timed Minutes Mode allows
the appliance to run for a set
amount of time from one to 60
minutes with a single activation.
Ideal for longer activities.
Latch Mode one activation
of the switch turns the appliance
"on"; the second activation turns
it "off". Effective when you want
an appliance, such as a lamp,
to remain on for an extended length
of time.
(adapted from "Frequently Asked
Questions" pg. 17, AbleNet Product
Catalogue, 2000)
Finding
the Most Effective Switch Site
the switch site is one that allows
the individual to use their most
reliable motor movement, at the
same time it minimizes the energy
they expend to enjoy the activity.
The steps below can help you identify
the best solution.
- Observe
the individual in a relaxed
environment and watch for natural
movements. Record locations
you might place a switch. There
may be more than one.
- Connect
a switch to a preferred device
or device preferred by peers.
Place the switch in a location
where you have observed previous
movement, Touch the individual
adjacent to where the switch
has been placed. Prompt and
urge the individual to activate
the device.
- Wait,
observe and be patient. It may
take a while. Count the number
of activations. Watch for fatigue.
Try all locations where you
observe movement.
(written
by P. Locke, Ph.D. page 25, "Best
Practice Tips" AbleNet Product
Catalogue)
Focus
on the Activity, Not the Switch
Language development is a
goal for individuals of all abilities.
As they participate in an activity,
it is important to consider the
words you use to cue a individual
to a desired end result ("Turn
on the tape recorder.") rather
than the means ("Hit the switch.")
If we always refer to the switch,
the individual and others in the
environment will focus on the
switch, rather than the activity.
The activity teaches the user
about participation and inclusion
not the switch. At the end of
the day, if the user could talk,
we would want them to talk about
blending food, playing music,
starting the paper shredder, not
hitting the switch.
By using language that refers
to the activity, the individual
may begin to make the connection
that words have direct meaning
to an activity, and will focus
everyone on the activity.
(Adapted from "Best Practices
Tips" page 29, AbleNet Product
Catalogue, 2000)
|
