What is Scanning?
What is Scanning?🔗
Scanning is an alternative access method that is used for kids or adults who do not have the motoric 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. There are different types of scanning and different patterns for the scan. It may be difficult to choose which options below would be best for your client. First let’s consider your client’s vision and motor movements.
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 can through 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 (I.e. head, hand, foot, elbow, etc.). It is important to look for a consistent volitional motor movement.
- Based on the client’s motor movements you will also 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 you may want to start teaching them to use two switches.
One Vs Two Switches🔗
| One Switch | Two Switches |
| How it Works: – The device automatically moves (scans) through buttons, rows or groups. – The user activates one switch when the desired item is highlighted. This allows the user to focus solely on activating the switch when they hear/see the choice they want. | How it Works: – One switch moves the scan forward to the next item or row. – The second switch works as the enter or selects the desired cell. – The user is in control of both movements; advancing and selecting. |
| Pros: – Requires only one reliable movement. – Simpler motor demand. – Good for users with limited physical control. | Pros: – Faster than one-switch scanning. – More control over pacing since you do not have to wait for the automatic cycling. |
| Considerations: – Can be slower when the device has to automatically scan through each choice. – Requires accuracy of timing. The user will need to hit the switch at the right moment. – If they hit the switch to early or to late they may have to wait for the cycle to scan through again. | Considerations: – Requires two consistent motor movements. – Slightly higher cognitive demand. Client needs to know which switch does which action and coordinate movements. |
| Best for: – Early switch users. – Individuals with limited motor control. | Best for: – Users with reliable movement in two body parts. – Users who are ready for increased independence and efficiency. |
Types of Scanning Patterns🔗
- 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.
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 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.
If you have any additional questions, please contact the ableCARE Product Support Team for further assistance.
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