What is Scanning?🔗

Scanning is an alternative access method that is used for kids or adults who do not have the ability to use a pointer finger to direct select or tap the screen. Instead, these individuals will use a setting called scanning which uses a switch to highlight and select the item they want.

Which Type of Scan is Best?🔗

There are different types of scanning and different patterns for the scan. It may be difficult to choose which options would be best for your client. In order to pick the best fit, we’ll consider the client’s visual and motor needs and abilities and personal preferences.

Vision and Motor Movements🔗

First let’s consider your client’s vision and motor movements. 

• Vision – Some clients who are visually impaired will rely on auditory cues to listen to their choices since they may not be able to see the pictures/words programmed. Other clients may have no visual issues and won’t need the auditory scanning feature.
  • Auditory scanning is a feature where the device will read aloud each item so the client does not need to rely on vision and can rely on hearing the choice they want.
• Motor Movement – You will want to figure out how your client will access the device. This is the perfect time to collaborate with your client’s occupational and physical therapist. Together as a team you will be able to identify what body part or movement would be the most reliable (e.g. head, hand, foot, elbow, etc.). It is important to look for a consistent volitional motor movement.
  • Volitional motor movement is an intentional automatic movement a person makes. For example, reaching for a glass with your right hand instead of the left.

One vs. Two Switches🔗

Based on the client’s motor movements and visual abilities, you will want to discuss if they are able to use one switch or two switches. Some clients may only have one reliable motor movement while others may find more success with two switches.

Types of Scanning Patterns🔗

Setting a scanning pattern allows you to balance the mental load of scanning with the motor and visual demand. Some users will want a faster scan, others will want to see or hear every option.

• Linear – This pattern scans each cell one by one.
• Row/Column – This pattern scans each row. The client will need to know what row the item is in.  They will wait for the correct row to be highlighted and then select their switch.  The individual will the scan each item in the row until the individual chooses the cell they want.
• Grid – This pattern scans groups of cells such as parts of speech to help increase the scanning speed. 

Reach Out for Help🔗

Scanning gives individuals with complex access needs the same powerful language system and the same opportunity to be heard. With the right support and practice, scanning can become a reliable and meaningful tool for communication. When first considering scanning for your client, many speech-language pathologists may feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin.

Our SLP Empowerment team is here to support you every step of the way. If you need help determining which switch might be the best fit, take a look at our What is a Switch? article.