Thoughts About Progression of Switch Skills
Now that we have figured out the components of the equation for the student (Activity + Motor Pattern + Switch + Location), don't get stuck in cause and effect... move on!
Often we figure out the components of the equation and jump right to expecting the student to demonstrate knowledge. How do we move students along in their switch skills to ensure they can use switches to demonstrate their knowledge and communicate?
To help guide teams we converted a 28 page article by Linda Burkhart “Two Switches To Success: access for children with severe physical and/or multiple challenges” into a chart that explains the stepping stones to two switch step scanning.
Stepping Stones to Two Switch Step Scanning
a guided, clinically, supported, sequential path to help move students into communication and demonstration of knowledge using switches.
The path is meant to be followed in a somewhat sequential manner although not in a rigid way.
A student may be in more than one step at the same time or within the same session.
There are slight differences between some of the higher steps but we feel the differences are important to consider.
Some students may move through the steps very quickly and others may need more time in one step or another.
Click here for the one page overview of the stepping stones or steps before step scanning that are often overlooked.
With permission, Kathy Lalk and Katie McGinnis converted the article by Linda Burkhart to a chart format.
Burkhart, L.J. (2018). Stepping Stones to Switch Access. Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups SIG 12, Vol. 3 (Part 1). Eldersburg, MD
Click here for the full chart that describes each stepping stone in detail including
definition
implementation ideas and tips
example activities
Below are links to videos of Linda Burkhart talking about the stepping stones to switch access. Enjoy!
Two Switches to Success Steps Before Step Scanning Software
Linda Burkhart's videos talking about Steps Before Step Scanning Software
This software is available through your computer access facilitator.