Track Pad

A type of computer input device composed of a smooth surface that converts the motions of a user's finger into the movement of the cursor on a computer display. Upgraded touch pads may incorporate fundamental touch pad functions alongside customizable shortcuts, improved scrolling features, or expanded surface sizes.

AT Category: Access
- 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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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.
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.
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?

Enhances accessibility for computer use
Reduces hand and wrist movement

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

A track pad, in general, is a touch-sensitive surface on a device, typically found on laptops or standalone peripherals, that allows users to interact with the device by moving their finger across the surface to control a cursor on the screen.

In the context of assistive technology, a trackpad can be particularly useful for individuals with mobility impairments who may have difficulty using traditional mice or keyboards. Track pad assistive technology often includes features like customizable gestures, sensitivity adjustments, and sometimes even specialized software or hardware modifications to better accommodate the user's needs. These adaptations can make it easier for individuals with disabilities to navigate digital interfaces, access information, and perform various tasks on computers or mobile devices.