Types of Mouse Emulators

This post continues with my discovery of the various types of alternative input options available within the Mac and Windows Operating Systems.  Mouse emulators enable students with physical disabilities to use the most reliable controllable movements to direct the mouse pointer.  These features are important so that students with disabilities can be engaged in the lessons and feel as if they are a part of the classroom environment.  The following chart describes the different mid-tech to high-tech mouse alternatives available:

Mouse Alternatives	Types	Student Characteristics
Trackballs	Mini trackballs   Standard trackballs           Large trackballs       Adapted trackballs	Have good fine motor control but a limited range of motion. Have a greater range of motion Have moderate fine motor skills Have moderate gross motor skills Are young Have poor fine motor skills Operate the trackball with feet Have poor fine motor skills Need to rest wrist on keyguard
Joysticks	Software that converts game joystick input to mouse control Adapted joysticks	Can control a standard game joystick   Need to use switches to click Need a keyguard Need to operate the joystick with a body part other than a hand
Touch screens	Integrated touch screens     Add-on touch screens	Are young Need to learn cause and effect Need a direct, intuitive interface
Head-pointing systems	Headset and reflective dot	Cannot use hands or head Can see and follow the movement of the mouse pointer Have excellent head control
Eye-gaze systems	Camera(s) on monitor and eyeglasses or googles	Cannot use hands or head Can control eye movements

 

Resource:
Dell, A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education, Inc.. (Original work published 2008)