Switch Assessment:

Location

Activity + Motor Pattern + Switch + Location = Switch Use

Location Blended learning.mp4

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Switch Location

Where is the best place to put the switch (es)?

Location is determined by the motor pattern(s) the student has the most control over

Consistent Placement

Consistency of the location is key
Motor Automaticity- the ability to do a motor movement without thinking about it (picking up a cup, brushing your teeth, playing the piano, etc)
The student is developing motor automaticity so they can focus on what they are doing rather than where the switch is every time
Once you establish the best location for the switch(es) use a mount to keep the location consistent for the student
It takes lots of opportunities and consistency to develop automaticity.

Mounting Considerations

What type of switch do you need to mount—size?
What surface do you need to mount to—flat surface, table top, wheel chair?
How strong of a system is needed—switch weight, impact from activations, motion?
What is the ideal position of the switch/tool for repeatable activation or viewing?
Will the switch or position of the switch change often?
Does the switch need to swing out of the way for transfers or when not in use?
Are there cords that need to be managed?

Permanent Switch mounting needs to hold the switch in a precise position

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