The SwitchIt! Extra Series has been designed to be as accessible as possible. Learners can operate these programs using switches, touch-screens, interactive whiteboards, plasma screens, IntelliKeys and all kinds of pointing devices.
This document explains some of the issues to consider when using different access devices.
What are the switch options for SwitchIt! Dinosaurs Extra?
Setting up your switch interface
Serial Switches:
If you are using a switch interface box that is plugged into the serial socket, you will need to configure the software to recognise how the connection is made.
If you are using a Concept Keyboard as a single switch or two switches, you will also need to set up the software.
In either case, go to the teacher Options screen, then click on the "Serial Switches" button and then the button next to Setup Serial Switches. A dialogue box will appear where you can configure the software for your switch box or Concept Keyboard. Select 'space bar' for the left switch and 'Enter' for the right switch.
Select the COM port through which your serial device is connected.
Click OK. The toolbar will disappear, but the serial switch program will continue to run invisibly. (It will need to be closed separately from the main program when you have finished.)
IntelliKeys:
If you are using an IntelliKeys keyboard, click on the IntelliKeys button. An overlay file will then be sent to your board so that it will operate as two switches (the board is divided vertically for two switch operation). You can also plug switches into the IntelliKeys.
If you need more information about interfaces and how they work visit our website.
(Requires internet connection)
Auditory Scanning:
The Picture Menus in SwitchIt! Dinosaurs Extra have auditory scanning built in. If the learner is using the mouse scanning in a Picture Menu, the names of the subjects will be spoken when the mouse pointer is moved over them.
If the learner is using switch(es), the names of the subjects will be spoken when the pictures of the subjects are scanned.
The Auditory Scanning option allows you to turn this speech off.
Using the mouse and keyboard
Pupils who use a pointing device such as a mouse, roller ball, joystick or head mouse can operate the program simply by clicking or pressing space bar or enter on the keyboard.
Using a touch-screen
The SwitchIt! Extra Series works really well on touch-screens and touch-monitors. Your pupils can watch the story build simply by touching the monitor.
Using a plasma screen or interactive whiteboard
SwitchIt! Dinosaurs Extra is perfect for use on a plasma screen or interactive whiteboard as part of your literacy hour or story time sessions. Gather your class together around the screen/board and everyone gets a chance to take a turn. This can easily be developed into a multi-sensory activity.