Vol. 4, No. 1, Jan/Feb 1996	Previous Issues Subscribe to AT Messenger Download PDF Viewer
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Keyboarding Can Be Easier

Richard Frick, DVR Unit Supervisor and
Sussex County ATRC Advisory Board Member

There are several keyboard options available for individuals who may have difficulty using the standard keyboard or mouse. This story demonstrates the effectiveness of efforts made by Delaware Technical and Community College (DT&CC), the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), and Easter Seal/DATI's Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC) to help a young woman pursue her educational and vocational goals.

Christine B. sustained severe multiple injuries as the result of an accident. Among the consequences of those injuries was a right hemiparesis. Some time thereafter, Chris enrolled in school at DT&CC-Owens Campus to pursue training that would prepare her for employment as a computer programmer. An excellent and determined student, Chris did well with her studies but did experience physical problems with the necessary keyboarding. Her injuries had left her with atrophy of the muscles of her right hand and a total inability to grasp or use the hand for any kind of manipulation. As a result, she typed with one hand, stretching her fingers over the conventional keyboard. Her naturally small hand, coupled with previous injuries to her left arm and wrist, made this a difficult process. Fatigue of her hand and physical discomfort would quickly ensue. Given her vocational plans, this represented a significant concern. Upon the advice of DT&CC and her vocational rehabilitation counselor, Chris visited the Sussex County ATRC. There she was shown a variety of keyboards, and a small keyboard for one-handed use was subsequently loaned to her. The DVR then went on to purchase one for her. Says Chris, "It's great! Works good for me!!" Chris no longer experiences the excessive fatigue and discomfort and is better able to carry out the keyboarding necessary to complete her course work. She will graduate this spring and indicates that it goes without saying that she intends to use the specialized keyboard on the job.

Some relatively inexpensive technology has made life a little easier for Chris. She underscores that it can take a long time to adjust to one's disability and "...when you're ready, you don't know where to begin." She adds, "It's very important for people to know what's out there to make things easier!"

The keyboard which met Christine's needs was called the Quick Touch Keyboard. Some of the other alternative keyboards available at the ATRCs include: Intellikeys, BAT, Comfort Keys, Mini Keyboard, Headmouse, and voice activated systems. Keyboards range in price from $100 to several hundred dollars. For more information on the keyboard options available, contact the ATRC in your county. "Computer Basics" is the topic of a workshop offered by Sussex County ATRC at DT&CC-Owens Campus on December 18, 1995. Some of these keyboard options will be discussed. For more information call 302-856-7946 or 739-6885.