Page 183 - Handbook of Electronic Assistive Technology

Chapter 6 • Environmental Control 171

• Face Recognition: there are Apps and software titles that will utilise a web camera
(often the integrated one in the tablet or computer) to recognise facial features.
This can then be used to move the mouse cursor around the screen, examples
include Camera Mouse. 15
• Mouse Click Emulation: when a physical press of a button to perform a click of
the mouse is not possible, software is available that will automatically perform
this click. The cursor is placed over the target for a pre-set duration, the click is
completed automatically (eg: Dwell Clicker).
• Operating system settings: there are settings in some operating systems to help
with text entry on a keyboard. These include Sticky Keys, Filter keys and Toggle
Keys. Mouse keys will also allow the user to control the mouse cursor using the
numeric keypad.

For more details on these methods, see Chapter 5.
There is a range of software available that will change the way the user interacts with
the computer interface to potentially simplify it, and to allow engagement of input meth-
ods other than a mouse and keyboard. This software can be configured to give the user
control over most of the standard mainstream software titles, e.g., internet browsers, social
media apps and some environmental controls, if the appropriate hardware is connected to
the computer. The interface presented to the user is generally simpler, with fewer options
to select from on screen. This can help with the cognitive load for the user and also pres-
ent onscreen targets that are easier to select, for example, with an eye-gaze camera. It also
enables switch users to scan the options to control their computers. There are a number
of examples of this software available: one utilised for communication and for access to
computer functions is the Grid 3 from Smartbox (Fig. 6-13).

Computer-Based Operating System Adjustments
As the more conventional computer evolves, the adjustments possible have changed along
with the additional assistive methods for access. There are adjustments in the operating
system that can be manipulated to improve access and optimise for alternative hardware.
There are also specific easier access programs that can be enabled:
• Display options: These were initially introduced to assist people with visual impairment;
however, the display options can also be used for those with physical impairment
too. For example, increasing the size of fonts or icons makes them clearer for those
with visual impairment, but also presents a larger target area for those with physical
impairment. It is also possible to adjust display aspects such as contrast and colours to
enhance visibility and clarity.
• Mouse settings: It is possible to adjust the sensitivity of the mouse; this can help with
targeting and movement of the cursor. There are also options such as changing the size
and colour of the cursor, locators and tails.

15 http://www.cameramouse.org and https://sesame-enable.com/.