Playing with Switches:

This device does the important work of converting the switch activation signal into information the computer can under- stand. Most commonly, these devices convert the signal to a keyboard keystroke but may also send a mouse button press, or media control. There are a wide variety of commercial devices and open-source versions available. The choice depends on the needs of the individual, the type of device being used, and the cost. Features of the switch interface boxes include the ability to customize the keystrokes being sent, connection methods (wired/USB or wireless/Bluetooth), and the number of ports and connections. A more recent and exciting innovation has de- veloped in providing access to highly customized interactions through the use of microcontroller boards such as Makey Makey and Microbit. These boards can send keystrokes to the computer by connecting two conductive surfaces to close a circuit and use alligator clips to create these connections, lowering the entry barrier. This solution type is lower in cost and may serve as an effective prototyping mechanism.

The Hitch switch interface box connected to the computer using Smart Notebook as a classroom dice roller when playing a math board game in the classroom.

porting their role as a student and providing literacy solutions is key. Switch access may be used to engage in learning activities created using familiar software such as PowerPoint and Goo- gle Forms when using an iPad tablet. Engaging games such as Breakout Rooms and MadLibs may be interacted with. Switch control may also allow the student to read and navigate through digital books available from a wide range of web apps and mo- bile apps which include: Voice Dream Reader, iBooks, Libby, Tar- heel Reader, and Tumble Books. Literacy software such as Click- er, support a switch-friendly method of writing and navigating through books. Cricksoft’s Clicker writing application interface allows for both automatic and step scanning incorporating audi- tory feedback and word bank options. Additional software such as Grid3, HelpKidzLearn, and Inclusive TLC software provides a more scaffolded learning environment and access to literacy through customizable learning activities. Written responses are most often completed through the use of the onscreen keyboard available on all operating systems. Al- ternatively, if a user can memorize Morse code, typed print may be produced using switch control for dots and dashes leading to a faster rate of keyboarding when compared with onscreen keyboard scanning. Customized 3rd party onscreen keyboards are also available providing a chunked scanning method (Crik- soft’s Superkeys), word prediction support, and customized vi- sual presentations (Keeble). Being able to tell someone “I’m hungry” or “I’m in pain”, is cru- cial for individuals who do not communicate using traditional speech. In many cases, that person who is unable to speak clear- ly also has complex access issues where using switches may be the most appropriate option. Switch scanning capabilities are built into all AAC devices and programs found on the market, and offer the ability to customize timing and feedback. For iP-

An additional and important aspect to consider is the built- in accessibility settings within the operating system. The Ap- ple Mac and iOS operating systems have robust and complex settings to support computer-wide access using even a single adaptive switch without additional software. Google Chrome- books and Android devices have also added built-in switch ac- cessibility. Windows operating systems, however, do not have switch accessibility settings and require the purchase and instal- lation of additional software that may provide this functionality. The only switch accessibility found in Windows is in the built-in onscreen keyboard. RJ Cooper developed a mouse alternative called CrossScanner, which enables a switch user to use one or two switches to navigate a mouse cursor. FROM WRITING TO RIDING. Now having selected the optimal setup, the user is ready to explore the world and the possibilities that having access to computers and mobile devices offer. For younger users, sup- An example of the Makey Makey board connected to a computer with the ground wire clipped to a metal bracelet and the input wire clipped to a metal measuring cup. The circuit is activated once the user lightly touches the cup.

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