PRE-PHY01
Two Switches for Success! Two Switch Step Scanning for Children who face Severe Multiple Challenges
Linda Burkhart, Private Consultant
Many students with severe physical and multiple challenges have difficulties accessing communication devices and computer software. Their ability to use even a single switch can be problematic due to physical and other disabilities. Cause and effect software and single message voice-output devices are available for the beginning switch user, but there is a huge leap from these to the more complex use of automatic scanning.
This presentation will take a detailed look at both the cognitive and motor processes of moving from cause and effect to using two switches with cognitive engagement, and then moving to either one or two-switch scanning. Learn how to eliminate the struggle of timed switch activation and put the child in control of the scanning process. Strategies from "light tech" to "high tech" will be demonstrated through case studies and demonstrations to illustrate strategies and setups for use with play, communication, literacy, and curricular activities.
Learning Points:
- List the factors that influence success or failure with automatic scanning versus two-switch step scanning.
- Describe progression for learning to use a single switch, two switches for two functions and then finally two Switch Step Scanning.
- Discuss available software that utilizes two-switches and/or two switch step scanning as an access strategy.
- Discuss creative strategies and software setups to motivate and teach skills in the areas of play, communication, emergent literacy, and communication utilizing two-switch step scanning.
Linda Burkhart, Private Consultant
Linda Burkhart is an internationally known pioneer in the field of simplified technology for children with severe challenges. She has developed numerous adapted switches and innovative strategies for using these devices with children. She is the author of a number of books and software titles on topics of assistive technology and augmentative communication.
Linda was a classroom teacher for fifteen years. Then for eight years, she worked as an Augmentative Communication and Assistive Technology Specialist for the Center for Technology in Education - a joint project between the Johns Hopkins University and the Maryland State Department of Education. Currently, Linda works as a private consultant and technology integration specialist.
