Using the Keyboard
There are many reasons why a standard computer keyboard may not be suitable for an individual. Many alternative keyboards are available and their uses and advantages are detailed below.
Visual impairment
Large keys are an obvious advantage for many computer users with a visual impairment. However, it is also important to give consideration to the contrast of the colours of the key and the lettering printed on it. This will be a matter of personal preference and knowledge of colour combinations that work well in other areas. The BigKeys LX keyboard has keys that are twice the size of a standard keyboard. It is available with white keys and black lettering, yellow keys and black lettering, black keys and white lettering, or multicoloured keys with black lettering.
A standard keyboard only uses ¼ of the key to print the letter and not always in a highly contrasting colour. Standard size keyboards are available in large print where the letter fills the key: Large Print Keyboard, Clevy Contrast Keyboard and Large Print Keys-U-See Keyboard. These keyboards also give a high contrast between the letter and key.
Dexterity difficulties
Large keyboards such as the BigKeys LX may assist those who struggle with hitting the correct key as they provide a much larger target (2.5cm square) for each key. Some users may require further assistance in the form of a keyguard.
Keyguards are metal or plastic keyboard covers with a hole above each key. This prevents accidental pressing of more than one key at once. It also allows a user to rest their hand on the guard without activating any keys. Keyguards are available for standard size keyboards (Cherry Internet Keyboard), BigKeys LX, Clevy 2 Keyboard and compact keyboards (see below).
One handed typists or small hands
Individuals who type with one hand may benefit from a more compact keyboard. The Compact Keyboards are more akin to a laptop keyboard, so require less of a stretch. The keys are also flatter, which may assist with access for users with limited movement. The Ultra Compact Keyboard has keys which are much smaller and therefore requires even less of a reach. Overall the keyboard is 208 × 113mm. These keyboards may also be more accessible for younger users or those with small hands. One handed typists can benefit from learning a five finger touch typing method using the program Five Finger Typist and / or the halfkeyboard.
On-screen keyboards
On-screen keyboards offer a typing option for those who require an alternative method of access. Grid Keys and Oska provide on-screen keyboards that can be accessed by switches, headpointers or touch monitors. GridKeys comes with many ready-made keyboards which enable control of common software, e.g. Word, Media Player, etc. Wizkeys is designed for headpointer or touch monitor users. Both GridKeys and Wizkeys have built-in word prediction to cut down on the amount of input needed. Similarly for Penfriend XL.
Personalised keyboards
In certain situations it may be appropriate to cut down the number of keys on a keyboard. This may be for visual reasons, or to enable a user to concentrate on specific letters during literacy activities. Overlay Maker 3 enables you to create your own keyboard design, which you print out and use on the IntelliKeys overlay keyboard. Examples of use include a keyboard with the letters of someone’s name highlighted, keyboard layouts which differ from qwerty and specific colour or size combinations.
Developing keyboard skills
Not everyone can acquire touch typing skills, but they can benefit from developing their familiarity with the keyboard. First Keys 3 ANZ is designed to do this by providing several levels of exercises with supporting images. When developing touch typing skills, the key is making it enjoyable. Nessy Fingers does this for younger users with games which also teach correct keyboard usage. For older users (up to age 14), TypeQuick is an adventure game which consists of structured typing lessons.