Accessibility at NSW CLIC

Compact keyboards

Description

Compact keyboards are similar in size to the keyboards on notebook computers. Keys may be slightly smaller than those on a standard keyboard, and may be closer together. There is no numeric pad, but keys on the main keyboard can serve this purpose by being used in combination with an fn (function) key. The fn key is an extra key which, when pressed in combination with another key, allows it to produce a second response. It is not to be confused with the regular function keys, F1 to F12. The number keys are still provided above the top row of alphabet keys.

Advantages

They may be useful for those who type with one hand or with a pointer stick, as they reduce the target area. They also allow a separate numeric pad to be placed to the left of the keyboard, which is useful for people who type with the left hand only. A compact keyboard also allows a pointing device such as a mouse or trackball to be brought in closer to the midline, reducing stress on the user’s arm. They can also be helpful when space is limited, such as on a wheelchair table.

Disadvantages

The fn key is usually required to access some function keys. The keys being closer together may affect typists who have a tremor.

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Very small keyboards

Description

Size of individual keys and of the overall unit is much smaller than usual. The keyboard connects to a standard keyboard socket, but additional software or hardware may be necessary, depending on model. The design of the keyboard minimises the amount of movement necessary to reach keys.

Advantages

These keyboards can be useful to people who have limited elbow or shoulder movement but who have good fine-motor control. Conditions such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy can cause these limitations.

Disadvantages

These keyboards are much more expensive than standard keyboards.

Expanded keyboards

Description

There are two approaches with expanded keyboards. One is to have large keys. The second approach is to have a large, membranous surface which can be programmed. That is, an area as small as 2 mm square or as large as the entire surface can provide a given response.

Advantages

These keyboards can be valuable for people who do not have fine-motor control. They are also very helpful for people who have an intellectual disability. In the case of membranous keyboards, the function and size of areas can be redefined, allowing configuration for a specific individual and/or application. A template (or overlay) can be applied to the surface. It can provide textual or pictorial cues (including tactual for people who have a visual disability) to the user. An overlay may be used to teach a routine or may simply prompt for steps in a process.

Disadvantages

Cost is quite high. Effort must be applied to producing overlays for given applications.

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Options for one-handed typing

Description

A keyboard may be specifically made for one-handed use. In that case, the keys are arranged to suit a person with only one hand. Software can be used with a conventional keyboard. This allows the keys on one half of the keyboard to emulate the whole keyboard. A third option is to use a more broadly available programmable keyboard. It can then be programmed so that keys produce either individual characters or perform more involved tasks.

It should also be kept in mind that predictive software can also improve typing speed by up to 100%.

Some people also find it effective simply to use a conventional keyboard with one hand. To facilitate this approach, instructional software is available. The benefit of adopting this approach is that, once learned, it is not necessary to use specialised hardware or software.

Advantages

There is, at least theoretically, increased efficiency over using a standard QWERTY keyboard for a person with only one hand. Several approaches are available, allowing choice on the basis of individual preference or need.

Disadvantages

If the person has already learned to type, it is necessary to learn a new technique. The user cannot as readily move from one computer to another if fully reliant on software or adapted keyboard. More work is required to fully realise the potential of programmable keyboards specifically for people with disabilities. Cost can be substantially higher than for standard keyboards.

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