As mentioned in previous posts, the computer adapts to a
variety of students. Not only can we
alter a computer within the program but physically as well. In this post I will discuss five major types
of mouse emulators, trackball, joysticks, touch screen, head-pointing systems,
and eye-gaze system, students with disabilities can use. In my next post, I will talk about different
types of keyboards.
Trackball has a stationary base and a ball that is rotated
to move the pointer on the screen.
A joystick has a stationary base and a stick that is a
perpendicular handle students use to move the pointer. This is used for students that have limited
hand and finger control.
Touch screen, AKA touch windows, allow students to touch the
computer monitor directly. We see these
types in ATMs, iPads, and smart phones.
Head-pointing systems have one component sitting on top of
the computer monitor while the student wears the other component. The component the student wears is tracked by
the component on top of the monitor.
These are used for students who cannot use their hands.
Eye-gaze systems track a student’s eye movements, acting
like the mouse pointer. To click, a
student can have a switch or blink depending on the system.
Everything can be summed up in the chart below.
I never knew so many different types of mouse emulators existed and now being informed, I will always have a way for any student to use the computer. No matter what problem big or small, a mouse can be found to suit their needs!
References:
Dell, A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in
the Classroom. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
Mia, excellent overview of mouse emulators! I especially appreciate all the pictures you added; they really show what you are describing. I also am amazed at how many mouse emulators there are out there. Great post!
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