BIG KEYS LX

Description:  Standard size keyboard with 60, 1" square, black on white keys. Also available in white on black keys. Has most of the characters found on a regular keyboard. Built in switch allows for choice of ABC or QWERTY layout. PC platform only. Simpler version (Big Keys Plus, with 48 keys), available in MAC or PC.

To Operate: Choose desired layout (ABC or QWERTY) and move keys if necessary.  Plug into keyboard port on computer. No installation software required.

Application: Keys are much larger than standard keys on a keyboard. Great for individuals with limited hand use, as well as limited vision.  ABC layout may be easier for those with limited memory/organization. Built in Assist Mode eliminates the need to press two keys simultaneously for certain keyboard functions. Accessories such as a keyguard are available.

Vendor(s): Infogrip; Technology for Education     Approximate Cost:  $185.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

COMPUTER KEYTOP LARGE PRINT STICK-ON LETTERS

Description:  Set of 101 large print labels for PC keyboards. Characters are 3 times larger than standard characters. Available in black/ivory background or white/black background.

To Operate: Peel and stick on the individual keys.

Application: Inexpensive and useful aid for those with limited vision.

Vendor(s): Independent Living Aids, LS&S Group    Approximate Cost:  $20.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

FROM A TO Z

Description:  Software program containing 10 activities that help develop and practice those visual, auditory and memory skills needed for letter and word recognition. Uses high quality sound and images appropriate for all ages. Activities can also be played using the space and enter keys on the keyboard. Operates on WIN; CD ROM.

To Operate: Choose a letter you want to work on and then move through a number of activities around that letter. Customize the activities to the user’s needs, such as hearing the sound versus the name of the letter, using upper versus lower case letters and choosing the number of letters to be shown in a letter finding game.

Application:  The activities use bold, large print letters and words, have high contrasting colors and use large target areas, beneficial for those with limited vision and hand use. Each activity is easy to follow, with minimal but clear instructions, helpful for those with limited memory/organization. Using the space and enter keys on the keyboard to operate the games can be helpful for those unable to use a traditional mouse or trackball, due to limited hand use.

Vendor(s):  Inclusive Technology   Approximate Cost:  $80.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

LEARN MORE THRU GAMES

Description:  Software program containing four great games and activities: Jigsaw puzzles, memory (concentration) games, coloring books and building blocks. Uses high quality images, sounds and animation appropriate for all ages.  A tools program allows you to design your own jigsaw puzzles and memory games. Memory game can also be played using the space/enter keys on the keyboard. Operates on WIN; CD ROM.

To Operate: Adjust each game according to the skill level needed. Memory game choose from 4, 6, or 10 pairs to match; Jigsaw puzzles- choose from 6, 12, 20 or 30 pieces and with/without guide lines; Building blocks- choose from 3 different sizes of blocks.

Application:  Games are presented in a simple, non distracting, easy to follow format, great for those with limited memory/organization and hearing. There are many built in features to help all users, including those with limited vision.  For example, when the cursor is moved over an object, such as a puzzle piece, it is highlighted, helping to orient the user to the location of the cursor. Features such as non-intricate line drawings in the coloring book that fill in with color with one mouse click, and puzzle pieces that fit into place when placed closely but “not exactly” in the right space, are extremely helpful for those with limited hand use.

Vendor(s):   Inclusive Technology; Technology for Education   Approximate Cost:  $80.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

MAKING SENSE WITH NUMBERS

Description:  Software program containing nine activities that focus on early number learning (numbers 1-9), encouraging number sequencing, counting and matching. Activities include dot to dot, a memory counting game and painting by numbers. Uses high quality images, sounds and animation appropriate for all ages. Alternative access is available using the space and enter keys on the keyboard or through scanning using an enabling switch. Operates on WIN; CD ROM.

To Operate: Choose the activity desired and the level of difficulty based on the user’s skill level. Choose the method of access ― mouse, keyboard (space/enter keys) or enabling switch/scanning mode.

Application:  The activities use bold, large print letters and words, have high contrasting colors and use large target areas, beneficial for those with limited vision and hand use. Each activity is easy to follow without the need of verbal instructions, helpful for those with limited memory/organization and hearing. Using the space/enter keys on the keyboard to operate the games can be helpful for those unable to use a traditional mouse or trackball, due to limited hand use. Simple line drawings in the painting by numbers activity that fill in with color with one mouse click is beneficial for all users.

Vendor(s):   Inclusive Technology   Approximate Cost:  $80.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

SWITCH BASICS 

Description:  Software program designed to teach different types of switch use: Cause & effect, press & hold, step scanning, and row & column scanning.  Graphics, animation and real life photos are appropriate for all ages with accompanying music. Nine different activities offer many learning experiences.  Operates on WIN/MAC; CD ROM.

To Operate: There are a variety of options to customize the program for each user including choice of music, number of switch hits for a result and one or two players.  Each activity can be operated using an enabling switch, touch screen, Intellikeys or mouse.

Application:  Engaging activities and music provide a great introduction to computer use for all ages.  The many ways to customize an activity, such as changing the scanning speed, are great for those with limited hand use.  The clear, "not busy" animation and graphics and the option to use audible prompts to hit the switch are helpful for those with limited memory/organization and limited vision.  There is also a visual prompt to hit the switch, useful for those with limited or no hearing.

Vendor(s):  Infogrip, Technology for Education   Approximate Cost:  $99.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

SWITCH ON TRAVEL

Description:  Software program that uses vehicles, with animation and realistic sounds, to develop awareness of cause and effect, develop switch usage and teach early language skills.  Activities include picture matching, matching a picture to the spoken word, and building a picture and then animating it.  Operates on WIN/MAC;  Floppy disk.

To Operate: Variety of options are available to customize the program for each user, including the choice of vehicles presented and changing the background color.  Can be operated with a mouse, the spacebar, an enabling switch or a touch screen.

Application:  Exciting but simple animation and sound engage users.  Changing the background color is very useful for those with limited vision.  Provides multi switch options useful for those with limited hand use. Clear, "not busy" animation is helpful for those who are distractible, have limited memory/organization or have limited or no hearing.

Vendor(s): Infogrip, Technology for Education   Approximate Cost:  $59.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library