Adapted Mouse

An adapted mouse has adaptations such as size and shape, ergonomics, and alternative control methods such as switch control, as well as customizable features and wireless technology.

AT Category: Sensory
- Tactile
AT Category: Access
- Environmental
- Physical
- Technology

Low - Mid Tech

Considerations

Take the following considerations into account when selecting and implementing AT to ensure that the chosen tools are well-suited to the student’s needs, align with their goals, and seamlessly integrate into their educational journey. By embracing a collaborative approach and considering the specific skills, tasks, and implementation context, educators can provide students with the necessary support to thrive academically and functionally, promoting inclusivity and fostering their overall success.

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Physical Therapist (PT): A PT may be a member of the multidisciplinary team that evaluates or reevaluates students suspected of having a disability and participates as an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee member in writing the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), drafting annual goals, and recommending assistive technology services and/or the related service of physical therapy. A PT may provide services that are academic and/or functional in nature depending on the age or grade-level of the student's curriculum. Physical therapy in schools primarily addresses gross motor skills of students, and may include exercises designed to develop strength and endurance, range of motion, and flexibility. The PT may be a member of the LEA assistive technology (AT) team.
Occupational Therapist (OT): An OT may be a member of the multidisciplinary team that evaluates or reevaluates students suspected of having a disability, including dysgraphia, and participates as an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee member in writing the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), drafting annual goals, and recommending assistive technology services and/or the related services of occupational therapy. An OT may provide services that are academic and/or functional in nature. Examples are graphomotor skills needed for handwriting; fine motor skills which include small, finely coordinated hand movements; visual perceptual skills which include the ability to understand and interpret what is seen; visual motor skills which include the ability to coordinate visual and motor skills; and/or self-care skills which include feeding, dressing, hygiene, and toileting skills for increasing independence in necessary life skills. The OT may be a member of the Local Education Agency (LEA) assistive technology (AT) team.
Recreational Therapist (RT): An RT is a healthcare professional who utilizes recreational activities, leisure pursuits, and therapeutic interventions to improve the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being of individuals with disabilities, injuries, illnesses, or other health conditions. RTs in Texas adhere to state guidelines, which may include licensure requirements, scope of practice regulations, and ethical standards, ensuring the delivery of effective and ethical care to their students.

Skills and Tasks What skills or tasks will the student utilize this tool for? What areas, functional or academic, does this tool support?

Typing
Technology use

Implementation Context In what activities, classes, or environments will the student utilize this tool?

An adapted mouse serves serve to support individuals with dexterity limitations, enabling them to complete vital job tasks. These devices enable users to adjust the angle, tilt, location, or configuration of the cursor control mechanism, empowering them to execute tasks essential for computer operation. In essence, these pointing devices offer the same functionalities as a standard mouse, providing crucial assistance to individuals facing dexterity challenges in fulfilling computer-related responsibilities.

Examples of adapted mouse assistive technologies include:

Trackball mice: These have a stationary ball on top that users can roll with their fingers or palm instead of moving the entire mouse. This can be easier for individuals with limited hand dexterity.
Joystick mice: Similar to video game joysticks, these allow users to control the cursor by moving a stick in different directions. They can be helpful for individuals with limited arm or hand movement.
Touchpad devices: These replace traditional mice with a flat surface where users can move their fingers to control the cursor. Some touchpads offer customizable sensitivity settings for users with different motor abilities.
Switch-accessible mice: These devices allow users to control the mouse cursor using external switches or buttons, which can be operated with various body parts like hands, feet, or head switches.
Eye-tracking systems: Advanced technology that tracks eye movements to control the mouse cursor. Users can move the cursor by looking at different parts of the screen, making it suitable for individuals with severe physical disabilities.
Mouse emulation software: Software programs that allow users to control the mouse cursor using alternative input devices like keyboards or specialized controllers. These can be customized to suit individual needs and preferences.