IEP and Assistive Technology 2: Sing Switch and Scanning

Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance: Becky is learning to read and is anxious to complete writing assignments with her peers. She is not able to produce handwritten material due to severe spastic quadriplegia. Becky is interested in using the computer and has been introduced to it. The staff has helped Becky experiment with several switches in a variety of locations. She seems to be most accurate using a switch mounted next to her head.

Annual Goal: Becky will use a single switch mounted on a switch-mounting arm positioned to the right side of her head and scanning software to access the computer 9 out of 10 times for a variety of educational assignments.

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A single switch sends a signal to a device such as a computer to perform a specific action. Scanning is when a cursor moves from one item, such as an image or word, to another on a computer screen. The user clicks the single switch when the desired item is selected. A single switch and scanning can be used together for many different functions from typing on a virtual keyboard to surfing the internet. Having the articulated arm places the switch in a position which is most accessible to the user. In Becky’s case that is next to her head.

Resources:

Dell, A. G., Newton, D. A., & Petroff, J. G. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities (2nd ed., pp. 191-194). Boston, MA: Pearson Education.