A large print keyboard is a standard keyboard with extra large and clear legends on the keys, making it suitable for people with vision impairment. Large print keycaps are generally 36 point and high contrast, usually black on yellow or black on white, to reduce eyestrain and fatigue. Computer users can choose between lowercase and uppercase keys and many keyboards have an inbuilt function eliminating character run-on, whereby the computer will only register the key being pressed once regardless of how long it is held down. This feature is particularly beneficial to people with motor control and tone disabilities.
For people with vision impairment, keyboard input is the most practical method of using a computer. In addition to large print keycaps, keys may also include high tack adhesives to prevent fingers from slipping, these are also optional in the large print version.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are various types of large print keyboards available to suit the individual needs of a person with vision impairment, including:
- coloured keys with the standard “QWERTY” keyboard setup with the vowels, AEIOU, all in a particular colour
- coloured keys in alphabetical order which is beneficial for children with vision impairments to assist them in learning their alphabet
- white keys with the standard “QWERTY” keyboard which is typically for adults with vision impairments who do basic word processing, spreadsheet and internet work
- white keys in alphabetical order which is beneficial for adults undertaking basic computer functions that are unfamiliar with the standard keyboard
- programmable surfaces with overlays which allow the user to have large print organised in any way that makes sense to them.
Braille keyboards are designed using a chordic data entry method or a standard data entry method, both of which use the eight dot unified Braille code. As the Braille keyboard can be situated on the typists lap, it allows correct ergonomic positioning of the arms, wrists, hands and fingers. It is also the only keyboard effective in preventing the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, trauma disorders, repetitive motion syndrome and repetitive strain injuries.
A voice over function is optional for vision impaired people and can be used in conjunction with a large print keyboard. This function verbally describes what appears on the screen and speaks the text in documents being typed.
There is also an option on all computer screens to make all type and images magnified and easier to read for people with vision impairment. To do this, the person needs to access the universal access preferences option on their computer. The links below provide more information:
References
Royal Institute for the Deaf and Blind 2010, Braille and Large Print, North Rocks, viewed 9 March 2011, http://www.ridbc.org.au/resources/vi_braille.asp.
Spectronics 2011, Intellikeys, Spectronics Inclusive Learning Technologies, Rochedale, viewed 9 March 2011, http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/catalogue/intellikeys.
Spectronics 2011, ZoomText Large Print Keyboards, Spectronics Inclusive Learning Technologies, Rochedale, viewed 9 March 2011, http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/product.asp?product=23652.
Tittiranonda, P., Rempel, D., Armstrong, A. & Burastero, S. 1999, Effect of Four Computer Keyboards in Computer Users with Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders, American Journal of Industrial Medicine, vol. 35, pp 647-661.
Wright, K. & Andre, A. 1998, Alternative keyboards: a user survey, Ergonomics Australia, On-Line, vol. 12(3), pp.1-11, viewed 9 March 2011, http://www.uq.edu.au/eaol/jun98/jun98.html.