Going Deeper: Major Types of Alternate Keyboards - Who benefits from Each?

A simple way to provide access to a keyboard for those with visual difficulties is a Keyboard Label - here large letters with higher contrast are affixed to the regular keyboard; an alternate form allows for Braille markings to cover a keyboard. 

Keyguards are acrylic or metal covers placed atop a keyboard and for each letter there is a corresponding hole.  They allow those with poor fine motor control to select only one key at a time.  Some with cognitive abilities may be given a keyboard with limited holes so that only those needed are accessible.

 

A selecting or pointing device would help those with a physical disability either who are unable to isolate a finger or use their hands to press an individual key.  They can be controlled with a mouth, head, foot or hand/arm and are typically homemade to meet the needs of the individual.

Moisture guards are flexible polyurethane covers that protect a keyboard from moisture or dirt.  They can be completely see through or incorporate high contrast, large print letters.  These are helpful for students who tend to drool or spill things.  For shared computers there are also disposable keyboard skins.

Learning about these tools can come in handy with a student who struggles with keyboarding.  I can ask for further help from an occupational therapist or a special education teacher as needed.