Keyboards+and+Keyboard+Overlays+for+Sight+Impairments

=Keyboards & Keyboard Overlays for Sight Impairments=

Queensland's Department of Education and Training identify a vision impairment (in term of education), as any diagnosed condition of the eye or visual system that impacts on access to learning.

Vision Impairment can be:
 * Present at birth.
 * As a result of an accident or disease.
 * As a result of a medical condition or syndrome.

Vision Australia describe Vision Impairment as individuals with some degree of sight loss. People with a vision impairment can go on to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives, they may just require a little support to ensure they can carry out their daily tasks and maintain a level of independence.

The level of support needed can range from corrective surgery to the use of aids such as; eye glasses, walking poles, guide dogs, as well as technological aids that support educational or work environments.

We live in a technological world where computers, ipads, the internet, and e-books all play an integral part in the education of our children. As future teachers, we will use computer technology in our classrooms. Children will need to master technology and softwear environments as well as develop an understanding of keyboard functions and commands.

Children with sight impairments are no longer disadvantaged when it comes to using a keyboard and developing keyboarding skills. There are many products available that accommodate people with a sight impairment, ranging from large print keyboard stickers, keyboard overlays and specifically designed large key keyboards.


 * Type of keyboard adjustments available:**

__Large Print English Letter Stickers__



Designed to stick onto your existing keyboard and would be a cheaper alternative to replacing the keyboard.

__EZsee Large Print USB Keyboards__

White keys on black backing or large black letters on yellow keys and black background. Suitable for more server vision impairment. These keyboards are the same size as a standard keyboard, so they do not take up any extra room. They are designed to assist people with sight impairments, to increase readability and reduce eye strain. The keyboards can also be good for anyone working in low or dim light or working late at night.

__Braille Keyboard Overlay__

Braille Stickers for keyboards.

Braille stickers make it possible for individuals who read braille to use a standard keyboard. Braille overlay would also be an additional aid for individuals with some vision whom are learning braille.

__Large Letter / Colour Coded Keyboard__ Designed to colour code the vowels and consonants, which assists children in literacy.

__Age Appropriateness__ All products are suitable for all children from the early years of learning right through and into adulthood.

__Teacher Applications__
 * Teachers can adapt the learning environment for children with a sight impairment by using large print keyboards or overlays.
 * Some children may find it difficult to read a standard keyboard and would benifit from a modified keyboard.
 * They are useful for individuals with light sensitivities, who may need softer light environments. They will easily see the keyboard.
 * The large letters are easy to see and will support the children with literacy skills and typing and enhance speed and efficiency.
 * The colour coded keyboards have a different colour for vowels and consonants and can assist in literacy lessons.
 * Keyboard aids can elevate the level of participation, enjoyment and inclusion in experiences within the classroom.
 * Students who have difficulty in holding a pen and writing, may find typing an alternate way of completing work and expressing thoughts.
 * Children are now growing up with technology and appear to like using computers, which can be an external motivating factor for learning.

__Website Links__

Spectronics [|www.spectronicsinoz.com/images/product/genesiswe/keysusee-kids] Amozon.com [|www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=sr_pg_1?rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Avisually+impaired+keyboard&keywords=visually+impaired+keyboard&ie=UTF8&qid=1309676006] AramediA []

__References__:

Department of Education and Training Queensland website sourced from http://education.qld.gov.au/ Spectronics website sourced from www.spectronicsinoz.com AramediA website sourced from www.aramedi.com