I can...use a switch to write with Clicker!

Sometimes children with physical disabilities struggle with holding a pencil and require assistance to produce text or to use a computer. Despite this, the independence and connection literacy can provide to students with disabilities is invaluable. Although there are many different methods to support writing, in this issue we'll explore ways to use Clicker to engage kids in early writing activities that are switch accessible.

How do I know if my student is ready?
The truth is that no one can know for sure but there's no harm in trying it out.  We've talked about the "least dangerous assumption" in the past which basically states that in the absence of absolute proof it's safest to assume that a child is ready and would get some benefit from exposure to engagement in early writing activities.


What do I need to get started?
Well, there is some equipment you'll need to purchase or borrow.  You'll need a switch interface that connects a switch(es) to your computer.  There are a few different kinds and the people who make Clicker also have one called Crick Switch Interface. If you have another kind, then you can plug it in an take a look and see if Clicker will accept the key equivalents that it would send.

1 switch or 2?
If your student is using 1 switch, you'll  use a automatic scan. Each choice in the scan is highlighted on the screen at a predetermined speed. When the desired choice is highlighted, your student hits their switch to activate the selection.

If your student is using 2 switches, they could use one switch to move through the choices and the other switch to make the selection.  This process is referred to as step scanning.  One of the benefits of step scanning is that the timing element is removed.  This means that the child can control when the next choice is highlighted.

Creating an Activity FIRST...plan out your activity on paper considering how much information your student can handle at once. There are LOTS of resources on how to create your activity on the training section of the Clicker website.

Here are some ideas for error free writing

Winter is + choice of :snowy, mittens, hot chocolate, cold, skiing
I like + choice of : ice cream, pizza, hot dogs
Dear Mom + choice of: I love you, I miss you, You're the best!
My brother  + choice of: is my buddy, is stinky, is in grade 3 

Here are some more ideas that provide choices (with the possibility of errors)
My pizza has + pepperoni, toothpaste, cheese, socks
I like blue + shirts, crayons, oranges, water

What about writing at home????
In Ontario the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) provides funding for a writing aid to people who have a physical disability, who have regular home writing needs and the literacy skills to be able to write.  There are specific eligibility criteria that must be met to access funding - talk to your Occupational Therapist to find out if your student qualifies.