For years at our school, we've been fortunate to have access to many of R. J. Cooper's specially designed software titles, tailored to the individualized needs of our students. If you haven't checked out their expansion into the world of apps yet, well then you're in for a treat! It may be the first time you come across such an accessible app.Scanning is a computer user's input alternative to using a mouse or, in the case of the iPad, direct selecting with an index finger tap. Choices or icons are scanned one at a time, often with an auditory cue, and when the intended selection is highlighted, a switch activates the selection. The switch is positioned at a spot on the users body that can be consistently targeted. There are a variety of scanning types: one-switch, two-switch, auditory scan, scan groups, to name several of the common types. This type of input is useful for individuals who have physical limitations. While the app is designed for switch input (sold separately), Scan to Pictures does allow interaction anywhere on the iPad screen to serve as an activation.
Scan to Pictures has a pre-made activities that you can try, but the power in the app comes from the customizable features. Word picture, label, and consequent can all be customized. Furthermore, selections can be presented as just a picture, just text, or text and picture together. Auditory scan can be enabled or disabled. Creating a custom scanning activity is relatively simple, though the design interface is a little confusing. Once you learn where everything is located (you record the label name in a different spot than where you type the name, etc.), creating an activity can take less than ten minutes.
R. J. Cooper markets Scan to Pictures as an AAC training program. It can be incorporated into lessons as a way to develop the vocabulary of learners with special learning and access needs. This isn't an activity that you'd set a student up with and then walk away, though. While it does provide a learner with a way to express an idea, the student still needs a communication partner to receive that idea.
There are two versions: paid ($4.99) and lite (free).
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scan-to-pictures/id511891960?mt=8
Be sure to check out the whole lineup of R. J. Cooper iOS apps: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rj-cooper-associates-inc./id412790299
